I'm on dialysis and having swelling from the feet up to abdomen. Do I need urgent medical help?

Dear Ask The Doctor: Is it ok if a patient on hemodialysis for 3 weeks now to have an edema from feet to stomach? his dialysis was done 3 times a week. If it is not ok waht is the cause of edema and how to lessen it or remove it. What will happen if the edema will not lessen?

Dear Berlita:

No it is not okay. I honestly think the patient should be seen by a doctor as soon as possible because medications may be needed to treat the edema and/or emergency dialysis may be needed. The edema, if not treated, can eventually congest the lungs and heart which will have serious, life-threatening consequences (e.g. cardiac arrest). Fluid intake should be closely monitored for those who are on dialysis. Please do not delay action to avoid unwanted circumstances. I hope I have answered your question and take care always.