Suggest Treatment For Persistent Swelling In Leg
Question: I am a 42 year old dog groomer so I am on my feet alot. I have no real health problems I have been having some issues with legs swelling. In fact the swelling has been persistent for about 3 months. Today I noticed that my right ankle (inside) was a little tender almost like it was bruised. I have not injured it, twisted it bumped it. Then it suddenly began throbbing. It is very swollen and the pain constant. I can't put weight on it or move my ankle.. I took some Tramadol but that barely touched the pain. Should I be concerned?
Brief Answer:
you should do doppler ultrasound
Detailed Answer:
Hi and welcome to HCM.
You should do doppler ultrasound and check d-dimers in blood to rule out possible deep vein thrombosis. This is a common cause of such swelling. Also, some other possibilities may be considerd such as lymphedema, allergic reaction or unnoticed trauma. In every case you should apply elastic compresses, keep legs elevated, avoid long standing and reduce salt intake. But as I said, doppler ultrasound of blood vessels is required. Wish you good health. Regards
you should do doppler ultrasound
Detailed Answer:
Hi and welcome to HCM.
You should do doppler ultrasound and check d-dimers in blood to rule out possible deep vein thrombosis. This is a common cause of such swelling. Also, some other possibilities may be considerd such as lymphedema, allergic reaction or unnoticed trauma. In every case you should apply elastic compresses, keep legs elevated, avoid long standing and reduce salt intake. But as I said, doppler ultrasound of blood vessels is required. Wish you good health. Regards
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Sonia Raina
I ended up in the ER because the pain got so bad and the skin was red and blotchy. The ultrasound ruled out any clots. Still it was diagnosed as phlebitis. Without blood clots? I do not have a spleen so the Doctor was also concerned about Gram Negative bacteria. Im assuming because he thought there was a possibility of infection? A whole other can of worms... I was given a pain pill and an antibiotic injection and sent home and was basically told they didn't know what it was. 16 hours later the pain is better but the swelling is worse and higher up to just above the knee. How should I proceed?
Brief Answer:
hi
Detailed Answer:
It may be phlebitis without clots since clots can be seen only in deep veins and superficial one may inflame without thrombosis. It is good that ultrasound is fine and it should improve within 4-5 days of antibiotics if the diagnosis is right. YOu should apply elasic compresses, keep leg elevated, apply heparin cream if available, have 1 week of Amoxicilin antibiotic and take ibuprofenum 3x400mg.
hi
Detailed Answer:
It may be phlebitis without clots since clots can be seen only in deep veins and superficial one may inflame without thrombosis. It is good that ultrasound is fine and it should improve within 4-5 days of antibiotics if the diagnosis is right. YOu should apply elasic compresses, keep leg elevated, apply heparin cream if available, have 1 week of Amoxicilin antibiotic and take ibuprofenum 3x400mg.
Note: For further queries, consult a joint and bone specialist, an Orthopaedic surgeon. Book a Call now.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Naveen Kumar