Expert: Dr. Marc Katz - 5/20/2009

Question
I had a virus a few weeks back and ended up with viral pneumonitis. I woke up two mornings ago with pain in the front of both ankles and moderate swelling of both of my feet and ankles, mostly on the lateral aspects. Could this be a viral arthritis? There has been no injury to either ankle and my MD said that I do not have CHF. I am a female, 58, slightly overweight. I do work on my feet for 10 hours, 2 days a week. I have never had a swelling problem before. I am currently taking levoxyl and flexeril for my fibromyalgia. Is there something that I can do at home for this? Should I go to my MD?

Answer
HI Jesse,

It is fairly common to have excess body fluid with any lung inflammation.  That fluid can end up being pulled by gravity into your foot and ankle.  If this continues I would see your PCP.

Sincerely,

Marc Katz, DPM
Tampa, FL
Advanced Podiatry
www.thetampapodiatrist.com
www.tampacryosurgery.com

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