[49F] With severe lower leg swelling and episodic dizziness

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, possible diagnoses include:

• Heart Failure: This condition occurs when your heart can't pump enough blood to meet your body's needs. Symptoms can include swelling in your legs, ankles and feet, shortness of breath, and fatigue.

  • Treatment typically involves lifestyle changes and medications to manage symptoms and slow the progression of the disease.

• Chronic Venous Insufficiency (CVI): This condition occurs when your leg veins don't allow blood to flow back up to your heart. Symptoms can include swelling in your legs and ankles, changes in skin color, and varicose veins.

  • Treatment typically involves lifestyle changes, such as exercise and elevation of the legs, and compression stockings to improve blood flow.

• Kidney Disease: Your kidneys filter waste from your blood and control the balance of salt and water in your body. When they're not working properly, fluid can build up in your body, causing swelling in your legs and shortness of breath.

  • Treatment typically involves medications and dietary changes to manage symptoms and slow the progression of the disease.

The dizziness you're experiencing could be related to these conditions, or it could be a separate issue. Conditions such as vertigo, low blood pressure, or anemia can cause dizziness.

What you can do

1. Schedule an appointment with your doctor as soon as possible to discuss your symptoms. They may want to perform tests to determine the cause of your symptoms.
2. In the meantime, try to elevate your legs when you're sitting or lying down, and avoid standing for long periods of time. This can help reduce swelling.
3. Stay hydrated and limit your intake of salt, which can contribute to fluid retention.
4. If you smoke, try to quit. Smoking can worsen circulation problems.

What you should look out for

Seek immediate medical attention if:

• You experience chest pain that lasts more than a few minutes.
• You have difficulty breathing or shortness of breath that is getting worse.
• You faint or lose consciousness.

Remember, I'm an AI and this advice is based on the information you've given me. It's always important to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis.