Hi

In the last 6 months i have started experience severe edema which is worse in my legs and feet. At times my skin appears visibly red and I feel like I have a sunburn. It gets worse as the day goes on.

My doctor has run many tests to rule out heart, liver, kidney disease. They have all been normal with the exception of a borderline low albumin level which she attributes to my vegetarianism.

The only other factor is that I am 1 year post total thyroidectomy for cancer and I'm taking a huge dose of synthroid every day.

Could my symptoms be caused by allergies? Can anybody suggest anything for relief? Thanks

gina

Allergy reaction can cause swellings and is also seen in people who have urticaria + angioedema. But usually for allergic reactions, there will be other symptoms that comes along... itching, hives. Chronic urticaria is a condition where some patients will have hives and angioedema(swellings) too. However, it is not an allergy but more of an underlying problem which can range from infection to serious problems like cancer(not so common though). There are people who have found that their chronic urticaria is related to their thyroid problems. And when they got their thyroid under control, their hives got better and so does the angioedema. But I don't know if CU could be causing your swellings since you didn't mention hives.

For patients with heart or kidney disease related edema, the doctors give them diuretic(sp) to help with water retention.

Have you have any blood test for autoimmune disorders(lupus, rheumatoid arthritis...etc)? They can cause swellings too. Where do you get swellings other than ur legs and feet? How long do the edema last? Are your doctors doing anything to help with the edema?
take care! :angel:

My doctors have done basic blood tests cbc, chem panel, urinalysis, and thyroid tests. They have told me to cut back on my salt but thats it.

I dont think this is hives or anything like it. Its generalized swelling all over but more pronounced in my ankles and legs.

Have you seen a rheumatologist before? I'm not sure which specialist could be more appropriate for you to go to... anyway, Hope you will get better soon! :angel: