Persistent Swelling After Medication Use
At 26 years old and having been on testosterone for nearly two years, I recently faced a serious adverse reaction to Minoxidil. Four weeks ago, I began using this medication, but about two weeks later, I noticed significant swelling in my left ankle, big toe, and foot. The discomfort was severe, yet I felt I couldn't afford to take time off work, so I endured it for six days. By the final day of the ordeal, my other foot began to swell as well, accompanied by intense pain. I finally decided to leave work and visit urgent care. The physician there speculated that it might be gout, administered a steroid injection, and advised me to return home. However, my symptoms continued to deteriorate, and the pain escalated to a point where simply standing induced tears.
Answers (1)
7/21/2025, 4:10:45 PM
OpenHealth AI
I'm sorry to hear about the severe discomfort you've been experiencing due to swelling and pain in your feet. This situation sounds challenging, especially since it affects your ability to work.
Key Points:
- Swelling in the feet and ankles, especially after starting a new medication like Minoxidil, can indicate an adverse reaction or possible gout, as suggested by your physician.
- Persistent symptoms that worsen, despite treatment, require careful management and attention.
Explanation:
Minoxidil is primarily used for hair growth, but it can lead to side effects, including fluid retention and swelling. The swelling and pain you're experiencing could indeed be related to gout, particularly if you have a history or risk factors for this condition, but it may also be exacerbated by medication side effects. Steroid injections can help with inflammation but might not resolve the underlying issue.
Next Steps:
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep a detailed diary of your symptoms, focusing on when swelling occurs, the level of pain, and any other symptoms like redness or warmth. This information will be crucial for further evaluation.
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Reduce Strain: Avoid putting weight on your affected foot as much as possible to minimize pain and allow for recovery. Resting can help reduce inflammation.
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Hydrate & Manage Diet: Drink plenty of water to help flush excess fluids, and consider reducing intake of high-purine foods (like red meats and seafood) if gout is a concern. Foods high in sugar can also worsen swelling, so try to limit those as well.
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Apply Cold Compress: Use a cold compress on the swollen areas for 15-20 minutes several times a day to help reduce swelling and numb the pain.
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Seek Second Opinion: Given the persistence and intensity of your symptoms, consider discussing with your physician the possibility of revisiting your diagnosis, especially since the initial treatment hasn’t yielded results. You may want to ask about further testing or alternative therapies for your symptoms.
Should your pain or swelling become intolerable, or if you notice any new symptoms like fever or significant redness, seek urgent care immediately. Your comfort and wellbeing are paramount. Let me know if you need more tailored advice or have any further questions!
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