Question: I am an overweight (5’7”, 225 pounds), post-menopausal woman in her late 50s who has periodic problems with water retention that don’t seem to be related to sodium intake. It seems to be mostly in my ankles but sometimes makes my entire body uncomfortable.
Sometimes this discomfort includes difficulty breathing, as I have mild asthma. I gain about seven pounds in water-weight, and I take Aldactazide about four to seven days a month when my symptoms are at their worst. What could be causing me to retain water?
Dr. Hibberd's Answer:
Do not disregard water retention that affects your breathing. Peripheral edema from vein incompetence in your legs does NOT affect your breathing. Generalized fluid retention usually indicates an imbalance that should be investigated. You can no longer blame hormones since you are post-menopausal (unless you are using supplements that exacerbate fluid retention).
Even though you use a diuretic for symptom relief, I encourage you to consult your physician to make sure you aren’t having heart problems. Then consult an endocrinologist and perhaps also a nephrologist to help sort out why you are retaining fluid. You will be pleased you invested the time in your health, and I know you will be far more comfortable when you understand what exactly is causing you to retain fluids.
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