[55F] With sudden right leg swelling and back pain

Patient Description

A 55-year-old female presents with sudden swelling in the right leg for the past hour, which is warm to the touch and slightly red. The swelling is associated with back pain and is described as causing electric shocks and tingling sensations. The patient denies any recent trauma or injury to the back or leg, as well as shortness of breath or chest pain. There is no history of prolonged immobility, personal or family history of blood clots or clotting disorders, and no recent changes in medication. The patient's medical history includes osteoarthritis, anxiety disorder, bipolar disorder, hypokalemia, hyperthyroidism, myocardial infarction, and numbness. She is allergic to Compazine and IVP contrast. Current medications include Baclofen (200mg 3 times a day), Prazosin (1mg at bedtime), Hydroxyzine (50mg, 4 tablets 3 times a day), and Lamictal (150mg once daily).

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the information you’ve provided, there are a few serious conditions that could be causing your symptoms:

  1. Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT): This is a blood clot that forms in a deep vein, usually in the legs. Symptoms can include sudden swelling, warmth, redness, and pain. Given your sudden leg swelling and warmth, this is a serious possibility. DVT can lead to a life-threatening condition called a pulmonary embolism if the clot travels to the lungs.

  2. Cellulitis: This is a bacterial skin infection that can cause redness, swelling, warmth, and pain in the affected area. It can develop quickly and requires prompt medical treatment.

  3. Spinal Issues: Given your back pain and leg symptoms, there could be a spinal issue such as a herniated disc or spinal stenosis that is causing nerve compression, leading to swelling and pain in your leg.

What you can do

  1. Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Given the potential seriousness of your symptoms, you should seek medical attention immediately. It is important to rule out conditions like DVT or cellulitis, which require prompt treatment.

  2. Call 911 or Go to the Emergency Room: If you are experiencing severe symptoms or if you feel light-headed, short of breath, or if your symptoms worsen, call 911 or have someone drive you to the emergency room immediately.

  3. Avoid Walking or Standing for Long Periods: Until you receive medical evaluation, try to keep your leg elevated and avoid walking or standing for long periods to reduce swelling.

  4. Monitor Your Symptoms: Keep an eye on your symptoms. If you notice any changes such as increased pain, swelling, redness, or if you develop new symptoms like chest pain or difficulty breathing, seek emergency care immediately.

Remember, I am not a doctor, and it is crucial to get a formal diagnosis and treatment from a healthcare professional. Your health and safety are the top priority.

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4 mo ago

People Also Ask

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

Common symptoms of Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) include sudden swelling in one leg, warmth, redness, and pain in the affected area. It is important to seek medical attention as DVT can lead to serious complications like a pulmonary embolism.

How is cellulitis different from other types of skin infections?

Cellulitis is a bacterial skin infection characterized by redness, swelling, warmth, and pain in the affected area. It differs from other skin infections by its rapid onset and the need for prompt medical treatment to prevent complications.

What are the potential causes of sudden leg swelling without recent injury?

Sudden leg swelling without recent injury can be caused by conditions such as Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT), cellulitis, or issues related to the spine like nerve compression. It is important to seek medical evaluation to determine the underlying cause.

How can spinal issues lead to leg symptoms like swelling and tingling?

Spinal issues such as a herniated disc or spinal stenosis can compress nerves, leading to symptoms like swelling, tingling, and pain in the legs. This occurs because the nerves that control leg sensation and movement originate in the spine.

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