[47F] With redness in knees and feet, and history of high blood pressure

What might be happening

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

Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD)

• Rationale: PAD is a condition where the arteries that supply blood to your limbs become narrowed or blocked. This can cause symptoms like redness, coldness, and discoloration in your legs and feet, especially after standing or crossing your legs. The fact that your symptoms improve with elevation and rest further supports this possibility.
• Typical Treatments/Testing: Diagnosis often involves a physical exam, blood tests, and imaging studies like an ankle-brachial index (ABI) test, ultrasound, or angiography. Treatment may include lifestyle changes, medications to improve blood flow, and in severe cases, surgical interventions.

Venous Insufficiency

• Rationale: This condition occurs when the veins in your legs have trouble sending blood back to your heart. This can lead to symptoms like redness, swelling, and discoloration, especially after prolonged standing. The improvement of symptoms with elevation is also consistent with this condition.
• Typical Treatments/Testing: Diagnosis usually involves a physical exam and possibly a Doppler ultrasound to assess blood flow in your veins. Treatment may include compression stockings, medications, and lifestyle changes. In some cases, surgical procedures may be necessary.

Blood Clot (Deep Vein Thrombosis - DVT)

• Rationale: Given your recent diagnosis of a blood clot in your arm, it's important to consider the possibility of a blood clot in your legs. DVT can cause redness, swelling, and pain in the affected limb. While you haven't mentioned swelling or pain, the discoloration and coldness could still be related.
• Typical Treatments/Testing: Diagnosis typically involves a physical exam, blood tests (like D-dimer), and imaging studies such as an ultrasound. Treatment usually includes anticoagulant medications to prevent the clot from growing and to reduce the risk of complications.

What you can do

Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD)

• Consult a Doctor: It's important to see a healthcare provider for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. They may recommend lifestyle changes, medications, or procedures to improve blood flow.
• Lifestyle Changes: Quit smoking, maintain a healthy diet, and engage in regular physical activity to improve circulation.
• Symptom Tracking: Use MDandMe to journal your symptoms, track progress, and share your notes with your healthcare provider.

Venous Insufficiency

• Consult a Doctor: A healthcare provider can help diagnose and manage this condition. They may recommend compression stockings, medications, or procedures to improve blood flow.
• Elevate Your Legs: Elevate your legs when resting to help reduce symptoms.
• Symptom Tracking: Use MDandMe to journal your symptoms, track progress, and share your notes with your healthcare provider.

Blood Clot (DVT)

• Seek Immediate Medical Attention: If you suspect a blood clot, it's crucial to seek medical attention immediately. This condition can be life-threatening if not treated promptly.
• Follow Treatment Plan: If diagnosed with DVT, follow your healthcare provider's treatment plan, which may include anticoagulant medications.
• Symptom Tracking: Use MDandMe to journal your symptoms, track progress, and share your notes with your healthcare provider.

What you should look out for

Given the potential seriousness of your symptoms, it's important to seek medical care as soon as possible. Reasons to seek care even more urgently include:

• Sudden or Severe Pain: If you experience sudden or severe pain in your legs or feet, seek immediate medical attention.
• Swelling: If you notice swelling in your legs or feet, especially if it's accompanied by pain or redness, seek medical care.
• Shortness of Breath or Chest Pain: These could be signs of a blood clot traveling to your lungs (pulmonary embolism) and require immediate medical attention.
• Changes in Skin Color: If you notice any new or worsening changes in skin color, such as increased redness, purple discoloration, or paleness, seek medical care.

Remember, while I can provide information and suggestions, it's important to consult with a healthcare professional for a formal diagnosis and treatment plan. If you have any more questions or need further assistance, feel free to continue the conversation.