PEDAL EDEMA
FIND THE CAUSE. GET THE RIGHT TESTS
Common Cause
Cardiac conditions
Liver Disease
Kidney Disease
Thyroid disorders
Low protein
Medication
Prolonged Standing
Pregnancy
When You Seek Medical Attention
Suggested Lab Test
Complete Blood Count (CBC)
Purpose: To detect underlying anemia, infections, or other blood-related disorders that might contribute to your symptoms.
Renal Function Test (RFT)
Purpose: To evaluate how well your kidneys are filtering and functioning.
Key Markers Checked: Serum Urea, Serum Creatinine, and eGFR
Liver Function Test (LFT)
Purpose: To assess overall liver health and check for potential liver diseases.
Key Markers Checked: Bilirubin, SGOT, SGPT, Alkaline Phosphatase, Albumin, and Total Protein.
Thyroid Function Test (TFT)
Purpose: To screen for thyroid disorders, particularly hypothyroidism (an underactive thyroid), which can cause fluid retention.
Key Markers Checked: TSH, FT4, and FT3.
Serum Protein & Albumin
Purpose: Low protein or albumin levels in the blood frequently cause fluid to leak into the tissues, leading to swelling.
Key Markers Checked: Total Protein, Albumin, Globulin, and A/G Ratio (Albumin/Globulin ratio).
NT-proBNP
Purpose: A crucial blood test used to evaluate cardiac function, screen for heart failure, or detect fluid overload in the body.
Serum Electrolytes
Purpose: To detect any vital mineral imbalances that affect fluid regulation.
Key Markers Checked: Sodium (Na), Potassium (K), and Chloride (Cl).
Urine Routine & Microscopy
Purpose: To check for kidney abnormalities or the presence of protein in the urine (proteinuria), which is a major driver of edema.
Blood Sugar Panel
Purpose: To screen for diabetes or assess blood glucose control, as diabetes can lead to complications that cause swelling.
Common Cause
Cardiac conditions
Liver Disease
Kidney Disease
Thyroid disorders
Low protein
Medication
Prolonged Standing
Pregnancy
