swollen ankles - any ideas?

[Sqiggle]

my 19 yr old sister is currently suffering from anorexia, and one of the side problems is the fact her ankles are beginning to swell, which she says is quite painful. all the doctors are guessing this is due to malnutrition (sp?) but does anyone know anything to do to stop it? we have had friends who suggest she needs more salt, more protein etc. has anyone else got any ideas? thank you

[veritymoon]

have they checked to make sure her circulation is ok? i used to suffer from anorexia so can relate. have they done bloods lately to check electrolytes etc? its not something i ever had happen. check out the eating disorders website or a web site called scilent screams will go try and find email add as they are both really usefull

[mimififi]

could elevating them as much as possibly healp with the sypmtoms? I know it doesn't tackle the cause, but might alleviate the pain. Try lying on the bed with your hips right up to the wall and your legs up the actuall wall for several minutes. Don't stand for long periods of time either and drink plenty of water.

I know you have to get the actual cause sorted out, but this could help while you are waiting.

[undercovers]

are you sure she is not using laxatives as well - as this can lead to edema / swelling... hope she can resolve, much love undercovers.

[kazza12345]

it is probably due to a low albumin in the blood (protien) .. the only way to corresct this as far as i know is to eat more protien

[woofgang]

don't wish to worry you but could be heart failure which can result from anorexia