Good evening sir, My father is 67 years old and has been suffering from back pain for the past 5 months. We consulted a doctor and, after an MRI scan, the doctor said that his spine is slowly degenerating and prescribed tablets. However, after using those tablets, he is experiencing swelling in his legs. At the same time, his body movements seem to have improved and he is feeling more active. We would like to know whether continuing this medication is good or if it may cause any problems.

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Asked by Male, 25 · 14 days ago

Bayyarapu Mahesh Kumar

M Pharmacy

12 days ago

Improvement in movement shows that the prescribed treatment is helping, but swelling in the legs should not be ignored. This can sometimes be a side effect of certain medicines or be linked to other health issues, such as fluid retention, heart, kidney, or circulation problems. Because the exact cause cannot be confirmed without knowing the specific medicines and examining the patient, it is not advisable to continue or stop the medication on your own. The safest step is to inform the prescribing doctor promptly, so they can review the treatment, check for side effects, and decide whether to adjust, continue, or change the medication. If the swelling worsens, becomes painful, or is accompanied by breathlessness, seek immediate medical attention.

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⚕️ Understanding Spinal Degeneration

Spinal degeneration refers to the breakdown of the structures in the spine, such as the discs, joints, and bones. It's often related to aging and can lead to pain and stiffness.
This degeneration can cause conditions like osteoarthritis, disc herniation, or spinal stenosis, which may affect nerve function.

⚠️ Leg Swelling and Medication Side Effects

Swelling in the legs (edema) can be a side effect of certain medications used to treat spinal issues. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and gabapentin can sometimes cause fluid retention.
It is important to review all medications your father is taking with his doctor to identify potential causes of the swelling.

💊 Considerations for Continuing Medication

Weigh the benefits of improved mobility against the discomfort of leg swelling. If the medication significantly improves his activity levels, it might be worth managing the side effect.
Discuss the leg swelling with the prescribing doctor. They might adjust the dosage, switch medications, or recommend treatments like compression stockings or diuretics.

🩺 Recommended Next Steps

Consult the Prescribing Doctor: Schedule a follow-up appointment to discuss the leg swelling and its potential causes.
Medication Review: Ensure the doctor is aware of all medications and supplements your father is taking.
Symptom Management: Follow the doctor's recommendations for managing the swelling, such as elevating the legs or reducing salt intake.
Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of the severity of the swelling and any other new symptoms.

It's important to consult with a doctor, such as a rheumatologist or orthopedic specialist, to manage your father's spinal degeneration and address the side effects of his medication.

Answered 14 days ago