I have already asked a question last month about my fluid retention.
What type of Dr. do I need to see, I believe it has to do with my circulation
in my legs, they will get red, down to right above my ankles, then from the
ankles down no color. Any suggestions? thanks
Hey-
You would most likely see your PCP (Primary Care Physician) who would run some basic blood work and perhaps send you for an (vascular) ultrasound and/or stress test. You need a vascular specialist/pulmonary doctor to explore the reason for the water retention. Age is very relevant in this sort of situation. For example, from what you describe, it could be related to heart failure/heart disease (most likely if your older). Or a hepatitis or something as simple as too much sodium (which was the case with me). Have you been checked for diabetes?
Hey-
You would most likely see your PCP (Primary Care Physician) who would run some basic blood work and perhaps send you for an (vascular) ultrasound and/or stress test. You need a vascular specialist/pulmonary doctor to explore the reason for the water retention. Age is very relevant in this sort of situation. For example, from what you describe, it could be related to heart failure/heart disease (most likely if your older). Or a hepatitis or something as simple as too much sodium (which was the case with me). Have you been checked for diabetes?
Bella
yes, not a diabetic, nor do i have high cholesteral. i have controlled high
blood pressure, i take the a med which is like a duretic. but i take a duretic ownly sometimes along with it! and potassium. My pcp, checks my lungs and
heart sound she has never want any blood. she said they sound great w/no fluid sounding in them. my orginial dr. finally retired, and with no insurance I've been just kind of ignoring my health! Would a vascular dr. be able to
find out no matter what the problem, even if it is not heart related, or will they send me somewhere else? and then somewhere else? and so on, i just can't afford to go to a bunch of different drs.!
yes, not a diabetic, nor do i have high cholesteral. i have controlled high
blood pressure, i take the a med which is like a duretic. but i take a duretic ownly sometimes along with it! and potassium. My pcp, checks my lungs and
heart sound she has never want any blood. she said they sound great w/no fluid sounding in them. my orginial dr. finally retired, and with no insurance I've been just kind of ignoring my health! Would a vascular dr. be able to
find out no matter what the problem, even if it is not heart related, or will they send me somewhere else? and then somewhere else? and so on, i just can't afford to go to a bunch of different drs.!
how would i ever be able to afford a stress test? They probably won't even see me when they know i don't have insurance!
Wow you definitely have a dilemma on your hands with no insurance. Can you call your old PCP and have them refer you to someone and make them aware of your situation. There is always the hospital, they can't turn you away even if you don't have the ability to pay. If it related to your heart/heart failure (that's why she listens for fluid in your lungs) I know they do this this pressure thing on the lower extremities (if swollen) and they can tell if there is "pitting" which is a sign usually of a heart/circulation problem. I just remember that from having it done to me. Call local clinics. Call a helpline. Your health is VERY important! If you don't mind me asking, if you no longer have a PCP, how is your medication prescribed? And it can't hurt to call a vascular doctor and ask to speak to his or her nurse and see what she suggests.
Bella
Last edited by tattoogirl; 08-16-2007 at 05:02 PM.
Reason: etra comments
i can't really expand much on what bella told you already(great advice there bella) but i just wanted to mention to you that just seeing a primary type doc who could refer you for an ultrasound on your legs would really give you alot of info.this would be a great place to start.it would either rule in or out,alot of different things.also having your full labs run at that primary appt at least metabolic and a liver panel wouldn't hurt.these would be the basics that i would put my money into if i had no insurance.it will give you lots of info as to what this may or may not be.just some thoughts.good luck and please keep us posted,K? FB
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