Experiencing Leg Swelling After Discontinuing Amlodipine
Earlier this year, I began taking amlodipine at a dosage of 5mg, which resulted in noticeable swelling in my ankles and feet. To complicate matters, I sustained an injury to my left foot, exacerbating the swelling further. During my recovery process, I decided to gradually reduce my intake of amlodipine, and I observed an improvement in the swelling. It has now been about three weeks, possibly a month, since I ceased taking the medication, yet I still experience occasional swelling in my legs. It tends to subside by nightfall, but during the daytime, the swelling returns. Additionally, I've noticed that I'm waking up multiple times at night to urinate, which I believe is linked to the fluid retention. Based on my weight before sleeping and upon waking, I estimate that I eliminate approximately four pounds of fluid overnight. This situation leaves me wondering if stopping the medication has had a negative impact on my health or if any lasting damage has occurred. I'm worried about these symptoms but am unable to afford frequent consultations with a healthcare professional.
Answers (1)
7/1/2025, 12:10:41 PM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to be concerned about the swelling in your legs after stopping amlodipine, especially given your previous experience with the medication and your recent foot injury. Here are the key points to consider:
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Leg Swelling and Amlodipine: Amlodipine is a blood pressure medication that can cause swelling, particularly in the lower extremities. Since you've noticed improvement after discontinuing the drug, it's possible that the medication contributed to your swelling.
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Current Symptoms: The fact that your swelling tends to ease by night and worsens during the day suggests that it may be related to fluid retention or changes in your body’s circulation. Frequent urination at night can also be associated with fluid shifts in your body.
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Potential Causes: Other factors may be contributing to your symptoms, such as your foot injury, remaining inflammation, or even lifestyle factors such as diet and activity level.
Next Steps to Consider:
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Elevate Your Legs: Try to elevate your legs when sitting or resting. This can help reduce swelling by encouraging fluid to move away from the lower extremities.
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Monitor Your Diet: Reduce salt and processed foods, which can contribute to fluid retention. Increasing your potassium intake through fruits and vegetables may also help balance fluids in your body.
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Stay Active: Gentle exercise, like walking, can improve circulation and help manage fluid retention. If your injury allows, aim for short walks throughout the day.
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Hydrate Wisely: While it’s essential to stay hydrated, try to moderate fluid intake closer to bedtime to reduce nighttime urination.
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Keep a Symptom Log: Track when the swelling occurs, its severity, and any associated activities or dietary choices. This may help you identify patterns or triggers.
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Reassess Your Health: Though you have financial concerns about healthcare visits, if your symptoms persist or worsen, consider reaching out to a community health clinic or telehealth services, which can be more affordable.
Your concerns about potential lasting damage are valid, but it's often the case that symptoms like these can be managed effectively with simple lifestyle changes. Remember to listen to your body and prioritize recovery. If you have any further questions or need more guidance, feel free to ask.
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