Q. What deficiency causes swollen feet and ankles?

Doctor Answer is medically reviewed by SecondMedic medical review team.

Answered by Secondmedic Expert

Swollen feet and ankles can be caused by various factors, but one common culprit is a deficiency in certain nutrients, particularly potassium and magnesium. These two minerals play crucial roles in maintaining fluid balance within your body.

Potassium helps regulate fluid balance by acting as an electrolyte, which means it helps conduct electrical impulses in your body's cells, including those in your muscles and nerves. When you don't have enough potassium, a condition called hypokalemia, it can lead to fluid retention, causing swelling in your feet and ankles.

Similarly, magnesium is another mineral that helps regulate fluid balance and muscle function. When you're deficient in magnesium, your body may struggle to maintain proper fluid balance, leading to swelling in your extremities.

Other deficiencies, such as low levels of protein or vitamin B6, can also contribute to swollen feet and ankles. Protein helps maintain the pressure within your blood vessels, preventing fluid from leaking out into surrounding tissues. Vitamin B6 plays a role in regulating fluid balance and may help reduce swelling.

In addition to nutritional deficiencies, other factors such as prolonged standing or sitting, pregnancy, certain medications, and underlying medical conditions like kidney disease or heart failure can also cause swollen feet and ankles.

If you're experiencing persistent swelling, it's essential to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the underlying cause and develop an appropriate treatment plan. In some cases, simply addressing nutritional deficiencies through dietary changes or supplements may help alleviate symptoms, but it's crucial to rule out any serious underlying conditions.

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Q. Hello Doctor, from past 3 weeks I have too much dandruff problem and it cause hair loss will you suggest any best solution for this?

Doctor Answer is medically reviewed by SecondMedic medical review team.

Answered by Secondmedic Expert

Dealing with excessive dandruff leading to hair loss can be frustrating, but there are effective ways to address this issue. Here's what you can do:

1. Switch to a Gentle Shampoo: Opt for shampoos specifically designed for dandruff, containing ingredients like ketoconazole, zinc pyrithione, coal tar, or selenium sulfide. Use these shampoos regularly to reduce dandruff buildup.

2. Scalp Massage: Gently massage your scalp while shampooing to help remove flakes and improve blood circulation, which can promote healthier hair growth.

3. Avoid Hot Water: Wash your hair with lukewarm water instead of hot water, as hot water can dry out your scalp and worsen dandruff.

4. Balanced Diet: Ensure you're eating a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals essential for healthy hair and scalp, such as omega-3 fatty acids, zinc, and B vitamins.

5. Manage Stress: Stress can exacerbate dandruff problems. Practice stress-relief techniques like meditation, yoga, or regular exercise to help manage stress levels.

6. Apple Cider Vinegar Rinse: Consider using diluted apple cider vinegar as a rinse after shampooing. It can help restore the scalp's pH balance and reduce dandruff.

7. Consult a Dermatologist: If the issue persists despite trying home remedies or over-the-counter solutions, seek advice from a dermatologist. They can provide a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific scalp condition.

Remember, consistency is key when dealing with dandruff. Give these remedies some time to work, as immediate results might not always occur. It's essential to find what works best for your scalp, so don't get discouraged if you don't see immediate improvements.

Taking care of your scalp health not only addresses dandruff but also aids in reducing hair loss associated with this issue. Feel free to incorporate these tips into your routine and observe how your scalp responds. If the problem persists or worsens, seeking professional guidance is always recommended.

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