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Breathing issues, cough, Sleep issue , Swelling on Thighs, Ankles
My father was diagnosed with liver cirrhosis two years ago and has been on medication since then. However, he discontinued his medication for four months, which led to fluid retention in the lower abdomen. The fluid was recently removed, and he is continuing his liver treatment with no issues related to liver function. However, he then developed severe breathing issues. After consulting a doctor and undergoing an X-ray, he was diagnosed with bronchiectasis. Despite being treated for over 15 days, his breathing problems have not improved significantly. Additionally, swelling has appeared in his thighs and ankles, causing him to remain seated most of the day due to pain. His oximeter consistently shows a reading of 97. We’ve been informed that there may be an infection in his lungs, which could be contributing to his cough and breathing difficulties. What further analysis is needed to better understand his condition, and could someone guide us on the next steps?
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@balkrishna Multiple health conditions can really complicate treatment. I am glad your Dad went back on the meds for his liver.
The bronchiectasis alone shouldn't be causing the severe breathing issues you describe, and O2 sats of 97% are in the normal range. If the doctor suspects an infection, they need to order a sputum culture to test for the bugs that are typical with Bronchiectasis, specifically Non-tubercular mycobacteria (NTM or MAC) and pseudomonas.
What therapy or treatment has been ordered so far? Is Dad doing it?
One further concern in someone who has had fluid in the abdomen (ascites) is whether it is also around and affecting his lungs and heart. Has he seen a cardiologist?
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2 ReactionsHi @sue, thanks for your prompt reply. Couple of tests were suggested such complete blood report analysis, sputum test and kidney related all the reports are negative. currently swelling seems to be reduced but strange thing I noticed was if I give him a light massage on legs tone of the leg muscles loosen up similar to normal person but if he walks and sit on a chair for sometime, he muscles gets tighten up. Can you please tell why this could be happening. He is feeling bit of pain once muscles become stiff and with some massage feels bit ok
Just a couple thoughts-how long has it been since the lab work? Sometimes those with multiple med issues can have changes fairly quickly , especially if meds are changed and include diuretics. You might call docs office and explain what you’re seeing.
Second thought: is he eligible for home health care? You can ask for an evaluation from one of your docs. That would give you assistance in evaluating him.
@pacathy made some good suggestions.
I am going to make another one - Dad needs to walk - as often and as much as he can. Our bodies are made to move, which aids our circulation and general health, but too many people, especially if they don't really feel well, sit for many hours every day. (I am guilty of this in the evening when I am tired.) Getting up and moving every hour, for five minutes or longer, even at a slow pace, might help with the swelling and stiffness. I move by getting up from recliner or keyboard on the hour, roaming around putting things away, walking out to get the mail, or watering a few houseplants and stretching a little.
Does Dad live alone, or with a family member?