Understanding Swelling and Water Retention in Legs & Ankles: Causes & Solutions

Question
Hello my name is Amanda and I have a friend who has been retaining water in her entire legs and ankles. They have been swollen now for aabout 4 days they haven't gotten worse but they haven't gotten better. Her ankles seem to have some bruising to them. she has taken water pills and kept her legs elevated. Do have any suggestions on what this could be from and what she could do? There are many things we have thought of like  diabetes, too much salt,and pregnancy. But we have kind of ruled them out. She also has had fatigue and some puffyness all over the body.
Thank you for your time!
Amanda

Answer
Hi Amanda and thanks for writing,

Sudden edema is a concern and I think the wisest thing to do is to have your friend go see her doctor and have some blood tests done to rule out the more serious possible causes (Kidney Insufficiency, Heart Failure, etc.) and identify the exact cause. It could be a simple electrolyte imblance or her glands could be acting up (Thyroid or Adrenal) or an infection (Cellulitis) which is not too serious IF caught and treated early.

Hope this helps and I wish you both good health,

Margot