[40F] With burning and swollen feet, history of neuropathy

What might be happening

Based on the information you provided, here are some possible explanations for your symptoms:

• Peripheral Neuropathy: Given your history of neuropathy, the burning sensation and loss of feeling in your feet could be related to nerve damage. Neuropathy can cause pain, burning, and numbness, often worsening with heat and prolonged standing.

  • Treatment: Management typically involves medications to control pain, such as anticonvulsants or antidepressants, and lifestyle changes to manage symptoms. Physical therapy can also help improve mobility.

• Chronic Venous Insufficiency: This condition occurs when the veins in your legs are not working effectively, making it difficult for blood to return to the heart. This can cause swelling, pain, and a feeling of heaviness in the legs.

  • Treatment: Compression stockings, elevating the legs, and avoiding prolonged standing can help. In some cases, medications or procedures to improve vein function may be necessary.

• Lymphedema: This condition involves swelling due to a buildup of lymph fluid, often in the legs. It can cause significant swelling and discomfort.

  • Treatment: Management includes compression therapy, manual lymph drainage, and exercises to improve lymphatic flow.

• Erythromelalgia: This rare condition causes episodes of burning pain, redness, and swelling, usually in the feet and hands. Symptoms are often triggered by heat.

  • Treatment: Cooling the affected areas, avoiding triggers, and medications to manage pain and improve blood flow can help.

What you can do

While waiting to see a healthcare provider, you can try the following to manage your symptoms:

1. Keep Cool: Since heat worsens your symptoms, try to stay in a cool environment. Use fans or air conditioning to keep the temperature down.
2. Cold Water Soaks: Continue to use cold water soaks to relieve the burning sensation, but be cautious to avoid extreme temperatures that could cause injury due to your loss of sensation.
3. Elevate Your Feet: Although you mentioned that elevation doesn't completely relieve the swelling, it can still help reduce fluid buildup. Try to elevate your feet above heart level when resting.
4. Compression Stockings: Consider using compression stockings to help reduce swelling and improve blood flow. Make sure to get the correct size and compression level.
5. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to help reduce swelling and improve circulation.

What you should look out for

Seek medical attention if you experience any of the following:

• Severe Pain: If the pain becomes unbearable or significantly worsens.
• Signs of Infection: Redness, warmth, or pus in the swollen areas.
• Sudden Increase in Swelling: Rapid or severe swelling that doesn't improve with elevation or compression.
• Difficulty Walking: If the swelling and pain severely limit your mobility.
• New Symptoms: Any new or worsening symptoms, such as changes in skin color or temperature, or if you develop a fever.

Remember, it's important to consult with a healthcare provider to get a formal diagnosis and appropriate treatment. They can perform necessary tests and provide a tailored treatment plan based on your specific condition.