[54M] With chronic leg burning and swelling

Patient Description

A 54-year-old male reports experiencing a burning sensation in his legs from the knees down, accompanied by persistent swelling and occasional severe itching. The symptoms have been present for approximately 6 months. The patient describes the skin on his legs as feeling stretched and notes that both legs are red. The burning sensation and swelling are constant, and there are no specific activities or situations that exacerbate the symptoms. The patient has not mentioned any other associated symptoms such as fever.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on your symptoms of burning sensation, swelling, redness, and itching in your legs and feet, here are some possible explanations:

  1. Peripheral Neuropathy: This condition involves damage to the nerves outside of your brain and spinal cord, often causing burning pain, tingling, and numbness. It can be caused by diabetes, infections, or other underlying conditions.
  2. Cellulitis: This is a bacterial skin infection that can cause redness, swelling, and pain. The presence of yellow pus and the fact that you had a scrape on your leg a week ago suggest that an infection might be present.
  3. Chronic Venous Insufficiency: This condition occurs when the veins in your legs are not working effectively, leading to swelling, pain, and skin changes. It can cause a feeling of heaviness or burning in the legs.

What you can do

For Peripheral Neuropathy:

  • See a doctor: It's important to get a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. Your doctor may recommend blood tests, nerve function tests, or imaging studies.
  • Manage underlying conditions: If you have diabetes or another condition that could be causing neuropathy, managing that condition is crucial.
  • Pain relief: Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen may help. Your doctor may also prescribe medications specifically for nerve pain.

For Cellulitis:

  • Seek immediate medical attention: Cellulitis can spread quickly and may require antibiotics. If you notice increasing redness, swelling, or fever, go to the emergency room.
  • Keep the area clean: Wash the affected area with soap and water and keep it covered with a clean bandage.
  • Elevate your leg: Elevating your leg can help reduce swelling.

For Chronic Venous Insufficiency:

  • Consult a doctor: A healthcare provider can recommend treatments such as compression stockings, medications, or procedures to improve blood flow.
  • Elevate your legs: Elevating your legs above the level of your heart can help reduce swelling.
  • Exercise regularly: Physical activity can improve circulation and reduce symptoms.

What you should look out for

Given the severity of your symptoms and the possibility of an infection, you should seek medical care as soon as possible. Reasons to seek care even more urgently include:

  • Increasing redness, swelling, or pain
  • Fever or chills
  • Pus or other signs of infection spreading
  • Difficulty walking or standing

Remember, while I can provide information and suggestions, it's important to consult with a healthcare professional for a formal diagnosis and treatment plan. You can also use MDandMe to journal your symptoms, track progress, get insights, and share longitudinal medical notes with your provider.

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5 mo ago

People Also Ask

What are the common causes of a burning sensation in the legs?

A burning sensation in the legs can be caused by peripheral neuropathy, which involves nerve damage, often due to diabetes, infections, or other underlying conditions. Other causes may include poor circulation, such as in chronic venous insufficiency, or skin infections like cellulitis.

How can I differentiate between cellulitis and other skin conditions?

Cellulitis is typically characterized by redness, swelling, warmth, and pain in the affected area, often accompanied by fever. It usually occurs after a break in the skin, such as a cut or scrape. Other skin conditions may not have these systemic symptoms or may present differently, such as with a rash or localized itching without warmth.

What lifestyle changes can help manage chronic venous insufficiency?

To manage chronic venous insufficiency, lifestyle changes such as regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, elevating the legs, and wearing compression stockings can help improve circulation and reduce symptoms. Avoiding prolonged standing or sitting can also be beneficial.

When should I seek medical attention for leg swelling and redness?

You should seek medical attention for leg swelling and redness if you experience increasing pain, fever, chills, pus, or signs of infection spreading. Immediate care is necessary if these symptoms worsen or if you have difficulty walking or standing.

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