I’m hoping for some advice from someone in a medical profession or someone who’s been here before…
I have had Type 1 diabetes for about 17 years. I am using an insulin pump and Humalog insulin. I have had problems with my ankles and feet swelling, but my most recent lab tests have come back normal. No kidney problems, no thyroid problems. I don’t have any pain, just a lot of discomfort and embarassment caused by my legs. I’m only 25 and I feel like I have the legs of some little old lady (no offense to any little old ladies out there). I drink a lot of water, but I could definitely be getting more excercise…
Help me out! Thanks!
05
Oct 2009
What Do I Do About My Type 1 Diabetes & Swollen Ankles?
By 8 Comments
If you are having swelling you need to see the doc and get this treated. Make an appointment to get this treated right away. Go to your local drug store and get some support hose……knee high is fine and use these every day, You have to put them on BEFORE you swing your legs out of bed though or you could trap pooled blood in your lower legs and cause a blood clot. If you are unsure about how to use support stockings ask the pharmacist. Do call your doc in the morning to get an appointment scheduled.
just compress it with boorwater… it will help.
Leg swelling can be heart problems too, but you are kinda young for that. Make sure one leg is not bigger in diameter than the other leg, or else go to the ER for a venous doppler test to rule out blood clots (if one is bigger).
Don’t overdo standing or sitting. If sitting, prop your feet up on an ottoman. If sleeping in bed, put a pillow under your feet to help gravity help the blood go back to your heart as you sleep. Don’t wear too tight of socks or shoes (there are diabetic socks and shoes for people with overweight issues). Don’t tie shoes too tight either.
Compression hose can help if your doctor okays them.
You can elevate your legs when possible. Wear compression hose when you’re home, and do simple leg exercises. The more the muscles in the legs move, the less fluid will collect there.
People with diabetes do not have adequate circulation in their extremities. Poor circulation can lead to neuropathy in the extremities and increased edema. There is one treatment currently being used to help improve circulation in people with diabetic neuropathy which is called infrared light therapy. This treatment causes the release of nitric oxide which causes the blood vessels to open up and allow the blood to flow better. This will improve sensation and circulation thus decreasing the edema in the feet and legs.
Yes exercise is good. it is good that you are drinking water.
How is your diet? It will help if you avoid fried foods, soda or pop and other unhealthy foods or drinks. You could elevate your legs when you get a chance to sit for a while. Whenever you sit elevate. You will be amazed at the relief you will get.
it is from bad circulation. ask your doctor for lasix put is a water pill that will help the fluid not build up. elevate your feet when you can this will help also.
Hey hun,
Type 1 diabetic of 20 years here on an insulin pump. I too experience swollen ankles & legs from time to time especially when my period is coming around….tell your Dr about this 7 ask to be prescribed a diuretic…I take Lasix w a potassium supplement to take when I take the Lasix. It works great & also very quickly….just be prepared to pee alot!! LOL especially since you say you drink a lot of water ♥Best of Luck♥ by the way its totally normal to retian water being a diabetic due to numerous complications & bad circulation