Milroy’s disease causes chronic swelling of the lower extremities, often noticeable at birth. It is caused by a genetic mutation and has no cure. Treatment includes elevating legs, exercising, and proper skin care. It is hereditary and can cause skin infections, but is not life-threatening.
Milroy’s disease is a condition that usually causes chronic swelling of the lower extremities. Most sufferers have noticeable swelling of the feet and legs within days of being born. Other symptoms may also occur, including skin infections, wart-like growths on the skin, toenails that curve upward, and a swollen scrotum in newborns. More prominent leg veins are also common.
Most researchers believe that Milroy disease is caused by a genetic mutation present from the earliest stages of fetal development. There is no known cure or prevention for the condition, and those born with it will need to undergo lifelong treatment to ease the pain and discomfort associated with the swelling. Milroy’s disease is a rare condition, although it is not known exactly how many suffer from it in the world.
The primary symptom of Milroy’s disease is swelling, and this is often the only symptom that requires treatment. There are home remedies to help reduce swelling, including elevating your legs and exercising frequently to get blood circulating through your legs and feet. Those with office jobs are encouraged to take frequent breaks to stretch or go for a brisk walk. Massaging and squeezing the swollen areas can also help relieve pain and discomfort.
Because skin infections are common in people with Milroy disease, proper cleansing of the skin with antibacterial soaps or antiseptic solutions is often necessary. Antibiotics are often prescribed for bacterial infections. Frequent cleansing and the use of moisturizers can also be helpful in keeping the skin healthy and supple, as dryness is also a common problem.
Milroy disease is hereditary and can be passed on from a mother or father to a child. Diagnosis is usually made at birth, and treatment often begins immediately to reduce swelling. Milroy is not a life-threatening condition in most cases, although some serious skin infections may require hospitalization. These infections are more serious in those who have compromised immune systems, such as in infants and the elderly.
There is a very rare form of Milroy’s disease which affects only one side of the body for a period of time. This type can often go undiagnosed for several years until more severe swelling occurs. In most patients, the swelling does not get worse over time. Eating foods high in sodium and other substances that cause water retention can artificially increase bloating temporarily.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
