This topic is about an 82-year-old woman who recently had surgery, including an ileal conduit urinary diversion and a hysterectomy. While she is now cancer-free and generally doing well, she is experiencing significant swelling throughout her body, particularly in her legs, feet, and abdomen. This swelling is so severe that it prevents her from wearing her usual clothes and shoes. Her family is concerned and wants to know how long this swelling might last after the surgery.

Here are some helpful insights and advice:

1. The swelling is likely due to edema, which is fluid retention, rather than a typical short-term effect after surgery.

2. It is important to contact a doctor as soon as possible. Whole-body edema should be evaluated by a healthcare professional, such as the surgeon, gynecologist, urologist, or primary care doctor. If needed, consider getting a second opinion.

3. Diuretics, also known as "water pills," are often used to help remove excess fluid:
- Oral diuretics can be prescribed by a doctor.
- In more severe cases, intravenous diuretics may be administered in a hospital, which can lead to significant fluid loss in a short time.

4. Discuss possible underlying causes with the doctors:
- The swelling might be related to complications from the hysterectomy rather than the ileal conduit.
- There could be kidney-related issues; for instance, one person was diagnosed with nephrogenic diabetes insipidus after similar surgery.

5. Consider asking for a referral to a nephrologist, a kidney specialist, if the swelling does not improve with routine follow-up care.

6. A medication called Bendroflumethiazide, a type of diuretic, was mentioned as being effective for another patient who had similar surgery. The length of time the medication is needed can vary.