Expert: Leigh-Anne - 9/12/2005

Question
Dear Leigh-Ann:

Hi. I have suffered from anorexia for approximately five years, and have gone through mild recovery. I have gained quite a bit of the lossed weight back, however, I am still low on the BMI. In accordance with my anorexia, I have also suffered through five years of mild edema in my lower extremeties (knees down to ankles) and have a swollen gland (I believe it's my lymph node) on the left side of my neck. These are two issues that have yet to resolve. I am worried and beginning to wonder if they ever will. Do you know what could be the cause of this? Is it eating-disorder related? Is it reversible? I am going to see a doctor next week, but I would appreciate any feedback to alleviate my fears. Thanks much. Sunny  

Answer
the general rule with enlarged lymph nodes is that if they have not gone down in 4 weeks then they need biopsied. Don't get worried though... the actual percentage ofphysicians who actually feel that is necessary is very low. 90% of the time a biopsy of a lymph node will come back with no pathology (disease). Some people naturally have palpable (able to feel) lymph nodes. It may have become enlarged when you had an infection, and it never returned to normal size. Could be ED related... if you have been vomiting.

As for the edema... can be due to fluid overload or dehydration and electrolyte imbalances. You could have faulty valves in your legs causing a condition called venous insufficiency. This condition is seen more in middle age and elderly.

Neither of these problems are serious enough that you need to get worked up over. Some simple blood tests can ease your mind about the lymph node.