HealthCareMagic is now Ask A Doctor - 24x7 | https://www.askadoctor24x7.com

What Causes Blue And Black Discolouration In Leg While Suffering From Congestive Heart Failure?

Posted on Fri, 22 Jan 2016

Question: My mother has congestive heart failure. I am visiting her from out of state. In the last 24 hours her leg from the toes up past her ankle has turned black and blue, almost an eggplant color. She called her doctor Monday to get an appointment. She told them her leg was bleeding, which it was. She was told the doctor is not in this week. She has an appointment Monday with the doctor. Today, she mentioned she is worried this may be turning into a blood clot. That's when she showed me her leg and the color has changed in the last 24 hours and as stated it's almost an eggplant color. I wonder if we should wait or if I should convince her to go to the hospital sooner. Thank you.

Answered by Dr. Rakesh Madhyastha (41 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Needs immediate attention

Detailed Answer:
Hello

Thanks for the query

It looks like your mother is suffering from ischemia of the limb, which is reduced blood supply to the legs. It requires immediate attention. Please take her to the emergency room as soon as possible. She will require treatment with anti cogulation, if there is an ongoing infection then she will require antibiotics as well.
If she delays going to the hospital there is increased risk of permanent gangrene and losing of the limb.

Please do not ignore this matter any longer.

I hope I was of help, if you have any further queries please get back to me

Regards

Note: For further follow up on related General & Family Physician Click here.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Sonia Raina