What Is Protein Losing Enteropathy?

In protein losing enteropathy (Greek enteron = intestine; pathy = disease), proteins are lost through the gut wall into the gut hollow, resulting in low blood proteins and leg swelling. Proteins are lost through the damaged gut wall (see causes bellow) or through intact gut wall due to blocked drainage of proteins by intestinal lymphatic vessels (1).

Symptoms

Symptoms of protein losing enteropathy include:

• Leg swelling (result of low levels of proteins in the blood)
• Diarrhea (from the original intestinal disease)
• Blood in the stool (if ulcers develop during intestinal disease)
• Weight loss (from reduced absorption of nutrients in damaged small intestine)
• Various infections (due to lowered immunity)  

continue reading Protein Losing Enteropathy – Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, Treatment

Swelling of the leg may involve a noticeable distension of the shin or calf, ankles, feet or toes.  Foot swelling may be a common occurrence which most of us will experience at some point in life after a long day of standing or sitting but may also be an indication of a more serious pathology as in certain cardiovascular disorders.

Recurrent or persistent swelling of the feet should be investigated by a medical practitioner especially if you have a history of cardiovascular disease or have noticed a change in color, sensation or mobility of the leg, foot or toe.

continue reading Swollen Leg & Swelling of the Feet, Ankle & Toes