This Morning: Dr Chris describes effects of oedema

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King Charles is often photographed out and about on his royal duties. His pictures provide a tantalising glimpse of a mysterious figure. Recently, they have ignited interest for an unexpected reason.

Pictures of the King’s red and swollen figures have recently resurfaced in the wake of Queen Elizabeth II’s death.

The King’s fingers have become a source of much speculation.

Speaking to Express.co.uk, Doctor Paula Oliveira, of itsmeandyou.com outlined the possible causes.

“King Charles III’s red and swollen fingers could be due to oedema, a condition that occurs when kidneys fail to function as they should,” the doc explained.

As a result, water accumulates in the body, causing fingers, toes, hands, and feet to swell, warned Doctor Oliveira.

Fortunately, oedema symptoms can be alleviated by making simple adjustments.

The NHS says to raise your legs or the swollen area on a chair or pillows when you can.

The health body also advises:

  • Getting some gentle exercise, like walking, to improve your blood flow
  • Wearing wide, comfortable shoes with a low heel and soft sole
  • Washing, dry and moisturise your feet to avoid infections.

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“Treatment for swelling or oedema that does not go away on its own will depend on the cause,” adds the NHS.

“Speak to your GP about making lifestyle changes, such as losing weight or going on a low-salt diet.”

What else could be behind the monarch’s red and swollen fingers?

Arthritis could also be the reason behind the new King’s swollen and red fingers, said the doc.

“This condition is known for its ability to make the synovial membrane, the joint lining, inflamed. Due to this, the fingers may become swollen.”

Other theories have been advanced. According to Rory Batt, nutritionist at Marvin’s Den, gout could be to blame monarch’s sausage fingers.

Mr Batt said living an incredibly rich lifestyle, with rich foods and alcohol consumption, can spur on gout.

Gout is a common form of inflammatory arthritis that is very painful.

“Gout is a common occurrence in the upper class as it is a condition of abundance – too much alcohol and rich (fatty, salty, sugary) foods,” the nutritionist said.

He continued: “Kings in the past were famous for having gout. “It’s a form of arthritis that causes swelling around bones, in this case fingers.

“When the body has extra uric acid, sharp crystals may form in the big toe or other joints, causing episodes of swelling and pain called gout attacks. Uric acid can form due to liver issues.”

According to the NHS, attacks of gout are usually treated with a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAID) such as ibuprofen.

“If the pain and swelling does not improve you may be given steroids as tablets or an injection.”

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