[36F] Post-hysterectomy with leg pain, numbness, and swelling

Patient Description

A 36-year-old female, approximately four weeks post partial hysterectomy, began experiencing heavy legs, persistent cramping, and nerve-like pain in the thigh and calf since yesterday. The pain is described as a constant cramp rated 6/10 in severity, akin to a Charley horse, and is accompanied by a sensation of pins and needles and a heavy feeling. The symptoms are exacerbated when lying down or sitting and make it difficult to stand for long periods. The affected leg is more swollen from the knee up compared to the other leg, but there is no warmth or redness. The patient has been active, walking hourly and accumulating about 4,000 steps per day. There is no family history of blood clotting disorders or deep vein thrombosis, no known allergies, and no other medications apart from low dose naltrexone (4.5mg), vitamin D, and magnesium glycinate. The patient has a history of Central Sensitization Syndrome diagnosed two years ago and psoriasis diagnosed twenty years ago.

Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the information provided, it's possible that you are experiencing:

Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT): This condition involves a blood clot in a deep vein, often in the leg. Symptoms can include leg pain or tenderness, swelling, skin that feels warm to the touch, and redness. DVT is a serious condition that requires immediate medical attention. It can occur after surgery, especially if you've been less active than usual.
- Treatment typically involves anticoagulant medications to prevent the clot from getting bigger and to stop new clots from forming.
Peripheral Neuropathy: This condition involves damage to the peripheral nerves, often causing weakness, numbness, and pain, usually in your hands and feet. It can also affect other areas of your body. Peripheral neuropathy can be associated with surgical procedures, among other causes.
- Treatment typically involves managing the symptoms and preventing further damage.
Sciatica: This condition involves pain that radiates along the path of the sciatic nerve, which branches from your lower back through your hips and buttocks and down each leg. It usually affects only one side of your body and can be associated with prolonged sitting or standing.
- Treatment typically involves physical therapy, medications for pain relief, and in some cases, surgery.

What you can do

Seek immediate medical attention. The symptoms you're experiencing, especially the leg pain and swelling, could indicate a serious condition like Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT), which requires immediate treatment.
Try to keep your leg elevated as much as possible. This can help reduce swelling and improve blood flow.
Continue to stay active as much as you can, as this can also help improve blood flow.
Avoid sitting or standing for long periods of time. If you need to sit, try to get up and move around every hour or so.

What you should look out for

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

Severe leg pain
Increased swelling in your leg
Shortness of breath or chest pain
A leg that is warm to the touch or has changed color

Please remember that while I strive to provide accurate information, I am an AI and not a doctor. It's important to consult with a healthcare professional who can evaluate your symptoms and condition in person.

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1 yr ago

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