[44F] With left leg swelling and heaviness

Patient Description

A 44-year-old female reports experiencing swelling and a feeling of heaviness in her left leg for a couple of months. The weakness is constant and severely affects daily activities, rated as 7 out of 10 in severity. Pain occurs only when kneeling and attempting to stand. There are no changes in color or temperature, and no numbness, tingling, or visible veins are present. The patient has a history of poor circulation and a family history of circulation problems. She experiences shortness of breath when walking. There have been recent periods of immobility or travel, but no recent surgeries, hospitalizations, infections, or illnesses. The patient is not currently taking any medications.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on your symptoms, here are some possible explanations:

  • Chronic Venous Insufficiency (CVI): This occurs when the veins in your legs have trouble sending blood back to your heart. It can cause swelling, heaviness, and difficulty using the leg. Poor circulation and a family history of circulation problems can contribute to this condition.

    • Treatment often includes compression stockings, exercise, and elevating the legs. In some cases, medical procedures may be necessary.

  • Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT): A blood clot in a deep vein, usually in the leg, can cause swelling and heaviness. Shortness of breath when walking could be a sign that the clot has affected your lungs, which is serious.

    • Treatment typically involves blood thinners and sometimes procedures to remove the clot.

  • Lymphedema: This is swelling due to a build-up of lymph fluid, often in the arms or legs. It can cause heaviness and difficulty moving the limb.

    • Management includes compression therapy, exercise, and sometimes physical therapy.

What you can do

  • Consult a Healthcare Provider: It's important to see a doctor to get a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. They may recommend tests like an ultrasound to check for blood clots or other issues.
  • Elevate Your Leg: Try to keep your leg elevated when sitting or lying down to reduce swelling.
  • Stay Active: Gentle exercises like walking can help improve circulation.
  • Use MDandMe: Track your symptoms, note any changes, and share this information with your healthcare provider for better insights.

What you should look out for

  • Seek Immediate Care If:
    • You experience sudden chest pain or severe shortness of breath.
    • The swelling or pain in your leg worsens rapidly.

Remember, this information is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult a healthcare provider for a formal diagnosis and treatment.

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2 mo ago

People Also Ask

What are the common symptoms of Chronic Venous Insufficiency (CVI)?

Common symptoms of Chronic Venous Insufficiency (CVI) include swelling in the legs or ankles, a feeling of heaviness or tiredness in the legs, pain that worsens when standing, and skin changes such as varicose veins or ulcers.

How is Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) diagnosed and treated?

Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) is typically diagnosed using an ultrasound to visualize the blood flow in the veins. Treatment often involves anticoagulant medications (blood thinners) to prevent the clot from growing and to reduce the risk of further clots. In some cases, procedures to remove or dissolve the clot may be necessary.

What lifestyle changes can help manage lymphedema?

Lifestyle changes to manage lymphedema include regular exercise to improve lymphatic flow, maintaining a healthy weight, wearing compression garments to reduce swelling, and practicing good skin care to prevent infections.

When should I seek immediate medical attention for leg swelling?

Immediate medical attention should be sought if you experience sudden chest pain, severe shortness of breath, or if the swelling or pain in your leg worsens rapidly, as these could be signs of a serious condition like a pulmonary embolism.

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