[37M] Recurrent limb pain and swelling without injury

Patient Description

A 37-year-old male reports recurrent episodes of sudden, stabbing, and burning pain with associated swelling, starting in the foot and gradually moving up to the hip. These episodes occur approximately every two months, lasting about a week, and render the patient completely immobilized. The affected area exhibits a reddish-purple color and feels hot to the touch. The pain and swelling recede from the foot as they progress up the leg. The patient has a family history of clotting disorders or cardiovascular diseases but has no personal history of chronic illnesses, is not on any medication, and reports no known allergies. No recent injuries, shortness of breath, chest pain, or fever have been noted.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, possible diagnoses include:

  • Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT): This condition involves a blood clot in a deep vein, often in your leg. DVT can cause leg pain or swelling, but may occur without any symptoms. You've mentioned a family history of clotting disorders, which can increase your risk of DVT.

    • Treatment typically involves anticoagulants, also known as blood thinners, which prevent clots from getting bigger and stop new clots from forming.
  • Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS): This is a form of chronic pain that usually affects an arm or a leg. CRPS typically develops after an injury, surgery, stroke or heart attack, but the pain is out of proportion to the severity of the initial injury.

    • Treatment is aimed at relieving painful symptoms so that people can resume their normal lives. Options include physical therapy, medications, sympathetic nerve blocks, spinal cord stimulation, and intrathecal drug pumps.
  • Cellulitis: This is a common bacterial skin infection that can cause redness, swelling, and pain. It often affects the skin on the lower legs, but it can occur in the face, arms, and other areas.

    • Treatment typically involves antibiotics to fight the infection.

Please note that these are potential explanations based on the symptoms you've described, and it's important to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis.

What you can do

  1. Seek immediate medical attention. The symptoms you've described, particularly the recurring episodes of severe pain and swelling, should be evaluated by a healthcare professional as soon as possible.

  2. Avoid standing or sitting for long periods of time, as this can increase swelling and pain in your leg.

  3. Elevate your leg to help reduce swelling. Try to raise your leg above the level of your heart whenever possible.

  4. Apply a warm compress to the affected area to help alleviate pain.

What you should look out for

Seek immediate medical attention if:

  • The pain or swelling in your leg worsens
  • You develop a fever
  • The skin on your leg becomes red, hot, and painful
  • You experience sudden or severe pain in your chest, or difficulty breathing. These could be signs of a serious condition called pulmonary embolism, which can occur if a blood clot in your leg breaks loose and travels to your lungs.

Remember, this advice is intended to be general in nature, and specific causes may not apply to your situation. Always consult with a healthcare provider for accurate information.

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10 mo ago

People Also Ask


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

Common symptoms of Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) include swelling in one leg, pain or tenderness in the leg, a feeling of warmth in the affected area, and skin discoloration or redness. However, some people may not experience any symptoms.


How is Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) typically treated?

Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) is typically treated with a combination of physical therapy, medications such as pain relievers and corticosteroids, sympathetic nerve blocks, spinal cord stimulation, and sometimes psychological support to help manage the chronic pain.


What are the signs that cellulitis might be worsening?

Signs that cellulitis might be worsening include increased redness, swelling, and pain in the affected area, the development of fever, and the appearance of red streaks extending from the area. If these symptoms occur, it is important to seek medical attention promptly.


Why is it important to seek immediate medical attention for leg pain and swelling?

It is important to seek immediate medical attention for leg pain and swelling because these symptoms could indicate serious conditions such as Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT), which can lead to complications like pulmonary embolism if not treated promptly. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent potentially life-threatening outcomes.


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