Oedema
Oedema is a build-up of fluid in the tissues, most familiar as swelling of the ankles, feet and legs. It often settles on its own, and the pattern of swelling is what decides whether it needs looking at.
Key points
- Common causes are ordinary ones: staying in one position too long, salty food, excess weight, pregnancy, varicose veins and thyroid problems.
- Medicines are a frequent and easily missed cause, including some blood pressure medicines, contraceptive pills, hormone therapy, antidepressants and steroids.
- Swelling in one leg with no known cause, or that is severe, painful or sudden, warrants an urgent appointment.
Medicines listed for Oedema
The listed products contain Furosemide, Spironolactone and Acetazolamide, all in tablet form. Each belongs to a class of diuretics that helps the kidneys remove excess fluid, though they act at different points in the filtering process. Furosemide is a loop diuretic, Spironolactone blocks aldosterone, and Acetazolamide inhibits carbonic anhydrase. These medicines are also listed for other conditions such as hypertension, heart failure and glaucoma.
Further reading
What is oedema?
Oedema is a build-up of fluid in the tissues, most familiar as swelling of the ankles, feet and legs. It often settles on its own, and the pattern of swelling is what decides whether it needs looking at.
What causes oedema?
Common causes are ordinary ones such as staying in one position too long, salty food, excess weight, pregnancy, varicose veins and thyroid problems. Medicines are also a frequent and easily missed cause, including some blood pressure medicines, contraceptive pills, hormone therapy, antidepressants and steroids.
Which tablets for oedema can I order?
The medicines listed for oedema include products containing furosemide, spironolactone and acetazolamide. Examples include Lasix and Aldactone.
When should I see a doctor about oedema?
Swelling in one leg with no known cause, or that is severe, painful or sudden, warrants an urgent appointment.
Are medicines for oedema available over the counter in South Africa?
Yes, online. Direct Meds does not ask for a prescription to order medicines for oedema. We are a broker, not a dispensing pharmacy. We arrange orders and delivery with our affiliated supplier on your behalf.
Ordering without a prescription →Where can I buy medicines for oedema online?
On Direct Meds: choose the product, strength and pack, then check out. Our affiliated supplier delivers across South Africa. Estimated delivery is 7 days with Express Delivery, which includes online tracking, or up to 3 weeks with Regular Delivery.
How ordering works →