swelling in feet

[boo633]

I have noticed if I am on my feet alot after a couple of days my ankles start swelling and eventually moves into my feet  as well and will last for 4-5 days and my ankles will be hard as rocks.  I am having and have been having pain in the big joint of big toe of left foot is this related to MS or possible gout but it happens regularly when I again on my feet again for extended period of time or for consecutive days that is why I am leaning towards the MS.  Please help

[jensequitur]

I always try to lie down and put my feet up against a wall, until they feel cold.  Works for me!

[Lulu54]

Hi Boo! I have to somewhat correct what I have written here - I'm told by others that MS can cause circulation problems - I learn something new every day about this MiSerable disease.

Be sure to check with you doctor to determine the true cause of your swelling.  

Compression stockings would be useful if your problem is circulatory.  Compression stockings would be harmful if you have diabetes or gout.  Its hard to know for sure which would work for you.

However, I stand by my advice to get off your feet when possible and elevate them.  Regardless of the cause of the swelling, you need to get the fluids flowing and elevating them is one way.  Plus, we all could use a legit excuse to lay down and rest, right?  LOL

be well,
Lulu

[Lulu54]

Hi Boo!
Welcome to the MS forum here at MedHelp.  You will find lots of knowledgeable, helpful and compassionate folks here, just like jens.  She is absolutely correct that the swelling would be a circulation problem and not MS.

When you get the time and inclination I hope you will share your story with us.

in the meantime, be sure to put your feet up above the level of your heart to help the circulation in the lower extremities.

my best,
Lulu

[kmil1999]

Gout pain is common in the big toe.  

[jensequitur]

Swelling feet and legs are not a symptom of MS, but they are a symptom of poor circulation.  The big toe pain is probably plantar fascitis - it's what happens when the tendon at the top of the toe gets inflamed... or maybe it's the tendon at the bottom.

Try getting some tight-fitting socks that go up to your knee.  Your doctor can prescribe circulation socks, but they're quite expensive, and I don't know what your situation is.  For the foot, try putting it on ice when you get home, and take Aleve once a day for inflammation.