HiMy father is undergoing treatment for metastatic renal cell carcinoma. Mets were found in c6-c7. Radiation therapy was given and subsequently mets have not spread elsewhere. However partial destruction of c7 has compressed some nerves and he cannot feel or move anything from below his chest.He also has partial blockage in three of his cardiac arteries. He is also diabetic. He is receiving treatment for and is currently stable, except that his feet and legs have started to swell. His doctor says that we merely need to prop his feet up using pillows. But that is not working well.Researching the internet for these symptoms  I cam across the terms edema and dvt. I am worried and need to know if some immediate action is required to address the swelling?
Hi and thanks for the query, I am afraid there is actually nothing in immediate terms that you might need to do. Management of these symptoms shall actually depend on the expertise of the internist. It is not unusual however in renal disease to experience edema. Treatment involves proper evaluation of renal function, serum electrolytes, fluid restriction and diuretics. These interventions however need a careful evaluation, planning and monitoring. You might need to discuss this particular worry carefully with his treating physician. Thanks and kind regards. Bain LE, MD.