Swollen Feet and Parkinson's Disease: Causes & Medications

According to the Parkinson's Disease Foundation, swollen feet is not a direct symptom of Parkinson's disease. However, swollen feet or ankles can be a side effect of certain anti Parkinson's medications.

Medications

• Anti-Parkinson's medications that are known to possibly cause swelling include Parlodel (bromocriptine), Mirapex (pramipexole), Requip (ropinirole), Apokyn (apomorphine) and Symmetrel (amantadine).

Indirect Causes

• Swollen feet may be an indirect symptom of Parkinson’s disease when circulation problems arise in patients whose movements are severely limited for a long period of time.

Treatment

• Swollen feet may be treated at home by elevating the legs above heart level while lying down, exercising the legs, wearing support stockings, and consuming a low-sodium diet.

When to See a Doctor

• Medical help should be sought if foot swelling is accompanied by shortness of breath, chest pain, a decrease in urine output, fever or the feet are warm to the touch.

Prevention

• Swollen feet can be prevented by not sitting or standing still for long periods of time, not wearing restrictive clothing, exercising regularly and losing weight if necessary.