shortness of breath is an early symptom seen in congestive heart failure patients. swollen ankles and feet is a more serious symptom and may be evidenced by swollen extremities (especially the ankles) and by weight gain. i have known some congestive heart failure victims to gain as much as fifteen pounds in one day. one individual in particular stands out in my mind. she was much younger than 85 years old and took lasix (diuretic) every day to release excess fluid. when swollen extremities and weight gain of at least seven pounds occurred metolazone (known as the turbo pill) was added to the daily regimen for a very short period of time until the acute water build up was under control. although gaining six pounds of weight in two weeks is not in itself a medical crisis it is a sign of fluid retention and justifies being assessed in person by a physician. being 85 years old with overt congestive heart failure symptoms puts this person in a potentially life threatening situation. despite the upsetting emotions that a trip to the e. r. may evoke in this person it is better to be safe than sorry. i suggest that you phone her physician first and then take this person to the hospital for treatment. best wishes for this lady's speedy recovery.
swollen feet and shortness of breath are new symptoms of a 85 yr old who has congestive heart failure. however her oxygen levels are 100%. she has gained 6 pds over the last two weeks and has difficulty eating. we were advised by her physician to observe her (she has a pending appt nxt wk) and she has been taken her medication regularly and has strictly followed her diet. . should this warrant a visit to the e/r? i am trying to avoid additional stress on her since she has alzheimer's and dementia and the goings to the hospital get her confused and she comes back home more fragile than ever.