[54M] Experiencing progressive swelling and neuropathy

Patient Description

A 54-year-old male reports progressive swelling that began in the lower extremities and has moved upward into the hands over the course of a week. The patient describes a sensation akin to walking on pins and needles in the feet and reduced motor skills in the right hand. The swelling is asymmetric, with the right side being slightly more affected. There is no redness, warmth, or pain associated with the swelling, and no chest pain or shortness of breath. The patient has a history of valley fever from 2007 and was told of elevated kidney function numbers during a screening for a medical study, details unspecified. There is no known family medical history due to the patient growing up with foster parents. The patient had an emergency room visit two months prior for a cat bite on the right pointer finger, which was treated without complications. No current medications or known drug allergies are reported.

Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on your symptoms, here are a few possibilities:

Edema: This is a medical term for swelling. It is caused by excess fluid trapped in your body's tissues. Although edema can affect any part of your body, it's most commonly noticed in the hands, arms, feet, ankles, and legs. Edema can be a result of medication, pregnancy or an underlying disease — often congestive heart failure, kidney disease or cirrhosis of the liver.
- Treatment typically involves managing the underlying condition that is causing the edema. In some cases, it might involve medication to help your body expel the excess fluid in the form of urine (diuretics).
Peripheral Neuropathy: This results from damage to the peripheral nerves and often causes weakness, numbness, and pain, usually in your hands and feet. It can also affect other areas of your body. Diabetes is the most common cause, but it can also be due to infections, metabolic problems, exposure to toxins, and certain inherited disorders.
- Treatment generally involves managing the condition causing your neuropathy. In some cases, treatments can relieve the symptoms.
Kidney Disease: Given your history of abnormal kidney function, it's possible that your kidneys are not removing fluids and waste as efficiently as they should, leading to swelling in your extremities and possibly affecting your nerves.
- Treatment typically involves addressing the underlying causes and may include diet changes, medication, or dialysis.

Please note that these are possibilities based on the information you've provided and not a definitive diagnosis. It's important to consult with a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis.

What you can do

Make an appointment with your healthcare provider as soon as possible to discuss your symptoms. They may want to conduct tests to determine the cause of your symptoms.
In the meantime, try to elevate your swollen limbs above the level of your heart whenever possible, and avoid standing or sitting in one place for too long.
Monitor your symptoms closely. If they worsen or if you develop additional symptoms, seek immediate medical attention.

What you should look out for

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
Chest pain
Confusion or difficulty concentrating
Decreased urine output
A sudden, severe headache
Seizures

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

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11 mo ago

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