Worrying changes in legs

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librarianhelen

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Relationship to Diabetes
Type 2
Hi Everybody,
I am new to the forum, T2 and have been diagnosed since 1995, my daughter died aged 14 in 1991 and I believe the shock triggered the diabetes. When I was having fluid retention and swollen legs I tried diuretics but having to always be close to the loo became too disabling and now I wear compression stockings but my legs even with using the stockings have started to have wrinkling skin, lumpy legs, unsightly, freaky, is there anything I can do? (my legs were always my best feature!)
 
Hi and welcome.

So very sorry for your loss. I imagine that is something you never get over and must have been an horrendous shock to your system. Can I ask if you are on insulin and if so, when you were started on it and how much you take? I am just asking because I believe shock can trigger Type 1 diabetes but I am not sure it can trigger Type 2.

As regards your legs, are you able to walk much/at all? I find exercise is so important for improving the blood flow which can then remove the fluid. If I have a couple of days without "swinging my legs" ie getting out for a good brisk walk, I start to see the cuffs of my socks leaving a mark, but exercise sorts it. If you can't walk, then perhaps getting an exercise bike might help. Stimulating the blood flow to your lower legs and feet is really important.
 
Hi ,
Thanks for your thoughts. Perhaps you are right about shock only relating to type1. I don't inject insulin and use metaformin, am Type 2 but have no family with history of diabetes. I do need exercise, am a couch potato, have difficulty walking with COPD and arthritis in hips and knees. Exercise bike might help. I was just really shocked when instead of just swelling with fluid uniformly there is swelling, then none, then swelling, a sort of rippling effect. My balance is pretty hopeless. Thanks.
Best wishes,
Helen
 
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librarianhelen said:
Hi ,
Thanks for your thoughts. Perhaps you are right about shock only relating to type1. I don't inject insulin and use metaformin, am Type 2 but have no family with history of diabetes. I do need exercise, am a couch potato, have difficulty walking with COPD and arthritis in hips and knees. Exercise bike might help. I was just really shocked when instead of just swelling with fluid uniformly there is swelling, then none, then swelling, a sort of rippling effect. My balance is pretty hopeless. Thanks.
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I think seeing your GP would be a good idea as any change really need investigation.
I had been on blood pressure medication, the same one for many years but started getting swollen legs but a change in medication has really helped.
 
Play around with the Search box on YouTube for things like seated/gentle/indoor exercise, there are loads to choose from, some may be too strenuous or vigorous but you might find something you can manage

Enquire locally for aqua exercise
 
Welcome to the forum @librarianhelen

Sorry to hear about the changes you have been experiencing in your legs :(

The NHS suggests of things don’t improve after you trying to sort it at home for a few days, you should consult your GP

www.nhs.uk

Swollen ankles, feet and legs (oedema)

Find out about swelling in the ankles, feet and legs (oedema), including what it looks like, common causes and what to do about it.
www.nhs.uk www.nhs.uk

Or possibly
www.nhs.uk

Lymphoedema

Read about lymphoedema, a long-term condition that causes swelling in the body's tissues. It usually develops in the arms or legs.
www.nhs.uk www.nhs.uk

Either way it seems like something you need to get checked by your GP to find out what’s causing it
 
Not at all Helen

Hope you get some respite, and see some improvements in the symptoms affecting your legs soon.
 
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