[35F] Experiencing severe leg pain, swelling, and weakness

Patient Description

A 35-year-old female presents with severe, constant pain radiating from the feet to the lower back, with both legs being swollen, very hot to touch, and weak. The swelling has been present for 2 days and is warm and painful upon touch. The patient reports an 8-year history of thyroid problems but has not taken Synthroid for several years, currently taking Ozempic (2 mg once a week). The patient has experienced significant weight loss of 20 pounds. She denies any recent injuries, redness, or changes in skin color or texture, shortness of breath, chest pain, and changes in urination. The patient also reports high stress levels due to work for the past month, with reading as a stress relief. There is a family history of heart attacks. No known allergies or adverse reactions to medications have been reported.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, here are a few possibilities:

  • Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT): This is a blood clot that forms in a vein deep in the body, often in the leg. Symptoms can include swelling, warmth, redness, and pain in the affected area. DVT can be serious because the clot can break off and travel to the lungs, causing a pulmonary embolism.

    • Treatment typically involves anticoagulant medications to prevent the clot from getting bigger and to prevent new clots from forming.

  • Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD): This is a circulatory problem in which narrowed arteries reduce blood flow to your limbs. Symptoms can include pain, weakness, and swelling in the legs and feet.

    • Treatment typically involves lifestyle changes, medications, and sometimes procedures to open blocked arteries.

  • Lymphedema: This is a condition of localized fluid retention and tissue swelling caused by a compromised lymphatic system. Symptoms can include swelling, pain, and warmth in the affected area.

    • Treatment typically involves physical therapy, compression garments, and careful skin care.

Please note that these are just possibilities and not a definitive diagnosis. You should seek immediate medical attention given the severity of your symptoms and the potential serious nature of these conditions.

What you can do

  1. Seek immediate medical attention. Given the severity of your symptoms and the potential serious nature of these conditions, it is important to get evaluated by a healthcare professional as soon as possible.
  2. Try to elevate your legs when possible, as this can help reduce swelling.
  3. Avoid standing or sitting for long periods of time, as this can exacerbate swelling and pain.

What you should look out for

  • If you experience chest pain, shortness of breath, or difficulty breathing, seek immediate medical attention as these can be signs of a pulmonary embolism, a serious complication of DVT.
  • If your symptoms worsen or if you develop new symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.

Remember, I'm an AI and this advice is based on the information you've given me. It's always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional who can evaluate your symptoms and medical history in person.

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9 mo ago

People Also Ask

What are the symptoms of Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)?

Symptoms of DVT include swelling, warmth, redness, and pain in the affected area, usually in the leg. It is important to seek medical attention as DVT can lead to serious complications like a pulmonary embolism.

How is Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) diagnosed and treated?

PAD is diagnosed through physical exams, imaging tests like ultrasounds, and blood tests. Treatment involves lifestyle changes such as quitting smoking and exercising, medications to improve blood flow, and sometimes procedures to open blocked arteries.

What lifestyle changes can help manage lymphedema?

Managing lymphedema involves maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, wearing compression garments, and practicing good skin care to prevent infections. Physical therapy can also be beneficial.

Can stress contribute to physical symptoms like swelling and pain?

Yes, stress can contribute to physical symptoms by affecting the body's hormonal balance and immune response, potentially leading to increased inflammation and pain. Managing stress through relaxation techniques and lifestyle changes can help alleviate these symptoms.

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