for a year I ve been experiencing swelling of legs, ankles, feet and abdomen shortness of breath that worsens when laying down and cannot sleep unless I m sitting up because of feeling of not being able to breath. All of this comes on suddenly every 3 mos, continues for 3 wks and goes away suddenly.
Hi, thank-you for providing the brief history of you. A thorough clinical examination is advised. As there is swelling of the lower limbs whicChatDoctores on and off I will advise you get it assessed. The assessment of the cardiac system, abdominal region and vascular system will help to understand the possible cause. The swelling can be due to any cardiac pathology - venous insufficiency. Abdominal region needs an ultrasonography to rule out any kidney malfunctioning. Vascular screening will be done to check the DVT or other pathologies. Also, the breathlessness is due to the weak Abdominal muscles and also lower cardiac endurance. Having a thorough examination and laboratory investigation done should help to understand the root cause and treatment will be accordingly. Usually in my clinical practice we rule out the factors and start the patient with simple medication and Physical therapy. Fortunately they respond well. Regards. Jay In Chat Doctor. 