[61M] Concerns about a potential blood clot in the left thigh

Patient Description

A 61-year-old male presents with a swollen area inside the left thigh near the knee, with a half-dollar sized hard spot that is painful to the touch. The pain, described as stabbing, radiates from the affected area to the knee and is exacerbated by flexing the joint. The pain has been constant for the past 3 days and is rated as a 4 on a scale of 1-10. The patient has not experienced any recent injuries that could explain the symptoms. Additionally, the patient mentioned experiencing symptoms similar to those of a heart attack two weeks prior but did not indicate if these symptoms are currently present.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, possible conditions include:

  • Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT): This is a blood clot that forms in a vein deep in the body. It often affects the leg and can cause swelling and pain. It's a serious condition because the clot can break loose and travel to the lungs, causing a pulmonary embolism.

    • Treatment typically involves anticoagulant medications to prevent the clot from getting bigger and to prevent new clots from forming.
  • Baker's Cyst: This is a fluid-filled cyst that causes a bulge and a feeling of tightness behind your knee. The pain can get worse when you fully flex or extend your knee or when you're active.

    • Treatment can include medication, physical therapy, or possibly surgery.
  • Cellulitis: This is a common bacterial skin infection that can cause redness, swelling, and pain in the affected area.

    • Treatment typically involves antibiotics.

What you can do

Given your symptoms and the potential seriousness of conditions like DVT, it's important to seek medical attention as soon as possible. In the meantime, try to rest and elevate the affected leg to help reduce swelling and discomfort.

What you should look out for

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

  • Increased or severe pain
  • Swelling in both legs
  • Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
  • Chest pain or discomfort, which could indicate a serious condition like a heart attack or pulmonary embolism

Please remember, I'm an AI and this advice is based on the information you've provided. It's important to consult with a healthcare professional who can evaluate your symptoms in person.

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11 mo ago

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People Also Ask


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

Symptoms of Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) include swelling in one leg, pain or tenderness in the leg, which may feel like a cramp or soreness, and skin that feels warm to the touch. The skin over the affected area may also appear red or discolored.


How is a Baker's Cyst diagnosed and treated?

A Baker's Cyst is typically diagnosed through a physical examination and imaging tests like an ultrasound or MRI. Treatment may involve medications to reduce pain and inflammation, physical therapy to improve joint function, or surgery in severe cases.


What are the signs of cellulitis and how is it treated?

Cellulitis is characterized by redness, swelling, warmth, and pain in the affected area of the skin. It is usually treated with antibiotics, and it's important to complete the full course of treatment to prevent complications.


When should I seek immediate medical attention for leg pain?

You should seek immediate medical attention if you experience increased or severe pain, swelling in both legs, shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, or chest pain, as these could indicate serious conditions like a pulmonary embolism or heart attack.


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