Swelling ankles are a fluid issue. Provided the kidneys check out okay (from any major problems), this condition correlates with adrenal problems. The major point to understand  is that what most physicians will do here is prescribe a diuretic to get the fluid out, when you are most likely losing a lot of fluid anyway, along with sodium. The mineralcorticoid aldosterone, secreted by your adrenal glands, works with the kidneys to hang onto sodium (and chloride), which not only keeps sodium in your body, but also water. This is to maintain electrolyte and water balance in your body. Stressed out adrenal glands, especially in the later stages of chronic stress, tend to produce less aldosterone and therefore more sodium is lost. Since the body will lose more water with a lowered sodium level from the lowered aldosterone, you will become dehydrated more easily. Interestingly, even though you lose more fluid with the lowered adrenal gland function, edema, or swelling, especially around the ankles is a common occurrence as the body tries to regulate the electrolyte imbalance. Diuretics can many times make the condition worse over time. Addressing overtaxed adrenals is a specialty of Dr. Barry.

copyright © 2000-2008 by Dr. Stephen Gangemi