Edema on T

[ridleysw]

Does anyone else struggle with edema on T?  I know it is a known side-effect, but I am curious to hear from other guys who have experience with it.  I actually have a history of edema, which I had well-controlled with diet and exercise, but the T seems to have flared it up.  Have any of you found anything that helps?  I find that my calves and ankles start swelling the day before my shot and the swelling remains until two days after my shot, so obviously it's the trough that is the trouble time (isn't it for everything though?!).

[Kreuzfidel]

"Oedema" is a very vague term.  What kind of oedema are you experiencing as there are many kinds?  Have you seen a doctor about it as you have a history of it?

[ridleysw]

For me, it manifests as fluid (lymph) retention in the calves, ankles and feet.  It first appeared when I was 12 (around the time I got my first period), and I spent years going back and forth with doctors and tests to figure out what was the root cause.  No diabetes.  No vessel blockages or other issues.  Eventually, we determined that I had some food sensitivities, and the systemic reaction was causing the swelling to flare up.  So I have been able to keep it in check for years with diet (including avoiding the trigger foods, low sodium intake, and lots of water), compression, and exercise.  But it started flaring up a few weeks after starting T.

[Kreuzfidel]

Are you taking cypionate by any chance?

I would also ask if you've had your T levels checked since experiencing the swelling.

[Tysilio]

Edema isn't a problem I've had so far, but every time I see my doctor, she checks for it, so I'm thinking it's not unusual.

[ridleysw]

Yes, I am taking T. cypionate (IM injections).  I just had my T levels tested, and they are in the normal male range.  My doctor confirms that edema is a common side effect, so it definitely doesn't shock me.

[Kreuzfidel]

Cypionate can cause oedema more readily than some other forms of T.  Obviously I don't know how your oedema may be affecting the rest of your body, but I would presume that it may be something you will simply have to live with.  Otherwise, an alternative may be to consider trying a form of gel or a different injectable.

[JayDawg]

I had some ankle swelling during my first 3 months on T, but it seems to have gone away. I would elevate my feet at night and try to drink more water during the day. Hope it clears up for you soon.