Piting Edema

RavenWolf

Is piting edema ever NOT Pre-e or PIH? 6 weeks ago (when I was roughly 20-21 weeks) my doctor observed it in my ankles and told me I had to start resting and taking it easy - that I could work but not much else. I followed those directions and started drinking lots of water and the edema went away completely. The last two days I have noticed that it is coming back in the afternoons on my ankles and legs. I know that some swelling is normal and I am entering the third tri on Friday, but because it is pitting in certain spots (not the full ankle or leg, just certain areas on them) I am scared. My blood pressure is about where is has been since I got pregnant (borderline) but I do admit my stress level is elevated due to work. My regular appointment is day after tommorow. Should I call her now or wait and just drink lots of water and take it easy as before? Is there a chance this is just normal pregnancy swelling and not pre-e or PIH? Thanks!

mrsjrmiller

There are times when pitting edema is not PIH or pre-e but it is nothing to overlook..... however, the swelling is actually less concerning for pre-e if it is in the ankles/feet. Pre-e swelling/pitting edema problems typically happens more in the face and hands, if your BP is not too bad, and the swelling is not in your face and hands then I would think waiting till Friday should be ok, but may be better safe than sorry.

Best of luck - keep us posted!

jettagurl

I've had it since about 20 wks. I have not had any other Pre-E or PIH concerns.  They did a 2 hr BP check and asked several questions, like if I had any pain in my leg (it was primarily in my Left at the time) and determined it was not concerning, just needed to keep my feet up.  

Mrs.Reem

I'm having the same problem with my foot/ankle/leg on just the right side. (looks pretty stylish!) However, my blood pressure is insanely low. I run about 90/60 most days so yes it's possible not to have PIH or pre-e if it's in your legs. I agree with the others that it's your hands and face swelling that will get your OB jumpin'.

RavenWolf

Thanks ladies. So far its only in my ankles and lower legs. I do not see it in my hands as I can still comfortably wear my wedding rings and neither I nor my husband see any changes in my face. I am hoping its not as bad as I fear - will know tommorow morning when I see my doctor.