Which department should an elderly person with lower limb edema visit?
Sep 26, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Shuwen
Introduction
In general, elderly patients with lower limb edema may visit departments such as nephrology, endocrinology, cardiology, hepatology, or vascular surgery. In addition, neurology is also an appropriate department for evaluation. It is recommended that patients get adequate rest and maintain a light diet. If patients experience any discomfort, they should seek timely medical attention at a hospital for targeted treatment to avoid delaying their condition.
In general, elderly individuals with lower limb edema may visit departments such as nephrology, endocrinology, cardiology, hepatology, or vascular surgery. Specific details are as follows:
1. Nephrology
If the patient has kidney-related diseases, such as nephrotic syndrome or glomerulonephritis, they should seek evaluation in the nephrology department.
2. Endocrinology
If lower limb edema in the elderly is caused by conditions such as diabetes or hypertension, they should be evaluated in the endocrinology department.
3. Cardiology
If an elderly person experiences lower limb edema accompanied by symptoms such as shortness of breath or chest tightness, it may be due to heart failure, and the patient should visit the cardiology department at a hospital.
4. Hepatology
If an elderly individual presents with lower limb edema along with symptoms like decreased appetite, it could be caused by liver cirrhosis, necessitating examination in the hepatology department.
5. Vascular Surgery
If an elderly person develops lower limb edema accompanied by varicose veins, pain, or similar symptoms, it may be due to deep vein thrombosis, and the patient should promptly seek care at the vascular surgery department.
In addition, elderly individuals with lower limb edema may also consult neurology. It is recommended that patients get appropriate rest and maintain a light diet. If any discomfort occurs, they should seek timely medical evaluation for targeted treatment to avoid delaying their condition.
