Swelling from Norvasc???

[Lenin]

lane,

Unfortunately the mechanism are different between water retention (which a diuretic will help) and leakage of fluid at the arteriole level (which a diuretic isn't very useful for.) The latter is the methodology for calcium channel blocker swelling.

Doctors who prescribe diuretics for swelling caused by Norvasc really should get a textbook out and do some reading. THe only sensible treatment is removal of the Norvasc.

[shonks5]

Is it just the norvasc that does this or is it all of the calcium channel blockers? Is it harmful to have this swelling or is it just an annoyance? I was doing OK, as far as swelling, but bp was still up so the norvasc was increased by half of what I was already taking. Bp came down but I got swelling in my ankles and legs, and it isn't getting better. I thought that my body would adjust, but it's been a couple of weeks with no improvement. I'm wondering if I should ask my doctor for a change of medication, I already take accupril, with the norvasc. I was originally on atenolol but was taken off that because it was causing problems with my insulin resistance. Any suggestions?

[Lenin]

I think all the calcium channel blockers can cause hand and/or leg swelling but maybe some arre better than others for certain people?? My only experience was was Norvasc and the ankle swelling was pronounced (and ugly.) I think all edema carries a certain risk of complications.
From the University of Utah:

Excessive fluid in the extracellular space can markedly impair normal organ function. Edema of the skin, particularly in the lower extremities can be painful, interferes with normal blood circulation, impairs wound healing, increases the likelihood of infection, and is unattractive.

shonks,
All I can say is to ask your doctor if he has any samples of verapamil, diltiazem, or nifedipine and try each of them for a week or two and see what happens to your legs. Give the Norvasc a week to get out of your system before starting another so you're not comparing apples and oranges.

My GUESS is that you won't be able to take any of them...but it's only a guess.

[shonks5]

The norvasc didn't seem to be a problem until I increased it, but I sure will ask about those other drugs, cause this is really starting to feel weird. My lower legs look and feel like playdough. I crossed my legs the other night, and when I uncrossed them, there was a dent left. Gross, huh? Anyway, thanks for your help!