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

Get your health question answered instantly from our pool of 18000+ doctors from over 80 specialties
159 Doctors Online

By proceeding, I accept the Terms and Conditions

Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

HCM Blog Instant Access to Doctors
HCM BlogQuestions Answered
HCM Blog Satisfaction

Suggest Treatment For Itching On The Ankle And A Swollen Foot

I am a 45 year old male, 6 1 , 220 pounds with no serious health issues or conditions except A-Fib. So I was taking a nap earlier today when I had an itch on my left ankle. When scratching it I noticed it felt a little big and upon inspection realized my entire left calf, ankle and foot were all swollen. Then I looked and the same had occured on my right leg, although not as bad. They are both puffy and I cannot see the bones or veins in either foot when usually I can. There is no pain, but they are definitely bigger than usual. My mom and sister came over for a little while and were surprised/concerned and my mom commented that my left foot looked plastic or like a rubber cast. I have been doing some reading and am concerned as well, especially if the possibility exsists that it could be a blood clot. Now before rushing to the emergency room or giving myself a panic attack, I wanted to see if I could get an opinion here online. My legs/feet have only been this way for about a day or so because I like to soak my feet and when I did that Friday night I didn t notice anything different then usual. I have been consuming more salt then I usjallh do, especially yesterday and thought maybe that could be the cause and maybe I am retaining water. I do not think this has ever happened to me before and I am hoping this isn t something serious or a symptom of something that is happening in my body which will cause problems. I thank you for your time and would appreciate any opinions or advice you may have. XXXX
Tue, 18 Feb 2020
Report Abuse
General & Family Physician 's  Response
Hello,

Swelling of the ankle & foot is commonly due to water retention in the body due to excess salt intake or renal insufficiency(kidney problem). You are suggested to cut on your salt intake, avoid salty food, junk food, biscuits or packed food items 'cause they contain salt. Avoid taking pickled food. Take natural diuretics like cucumbers, parley, coffee, etc.

Take food rich in magnesium to reduce fluid retention. Get clinically examined, get blood (LFT, CBC, etc) & imaging tests, EKG, Echo done to detect other medical conditions (heart disease, liver failure, lymphedema, DVT, hormonal changes, obesity, etc) that may cause such symptoms. Your treatment will depend on the cause detected. Avoid sedentary lifestyle, do walking to maintain better circulation, loose weight if obese.

Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.

Regards,
Dr. Nupur K, General & Family Physician
I find this answer helpful
Disclaimer: These answers are for your information only and not intended to replace your relationship with your treating physician.
This is a short, free answer. For a more detailed, immediate answer, try our premium service [Sample answer]
Share on
 
Loading Online Doctors....
Suggest Treatment For Itching On The Ankle And A Swollen Foot

Hello, Swelling of the ankle & foot is commonly due to water retention in the body due to excess salt intake or renal insufficiency(kidney problem). You are suggested to cut on your salt intake, avoid salty food, junk food, biscuits or packed food items cause they contain salt. Avoid taking pickled food. Take natural diuretics like cucumbers, parley, coffee, etc. Take food rich in magnesium to reduce fluid retention. Get clinically examined, get blood (LFT, CBC, etc) & imaging tests, EKG, Echo done to detect other medical conditions (heart disease, liver failure, lymphedema, DVT, hormonal changes, obesity, etc) that may cause such symptoms. Your treatment will depend on the cause detected. Avoid sedentary lifestyle, do walking to maintain better circulation, loose weight if obese. Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further. Regards, Dr. Nupur K, General & Family Physician