[62F] Experiencing lower leg swelling with discharge and nausea

What might be happening

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

• Chronic Venous Insufficiency: This condition occurs when your leg veins don't allow blood to flow back up to your heart. Symptoms can include swelling in the legs and ankles, pain that gets worse when you stand and gets better when you raise your legs, leg cramps, itchy legs, and leg ulcers.

  • Treatment typically involves lifestyle changes, such as exercising regularly, not standing or sitting for long periods of time, and wearing compression stockings.

• Lymphedema: This is a chronic condition characterized by swelling in the body's tissues caused by a blockage in the lymphatic system. The fluid discharge you mentioned could be related to this condition.

  • Treatment for lymphedema usually includes physical therapy, compression garments, and good skin care to prevent infection.

• Cellulitis: This is a common bacterial skin infection that can cause redness, swelling, and tenderness in the affected area, as well as fever and chills. The fluid discharge could be a sign of an infected wound.

  • Treatment usually involves antibiotics to fight the infection.

What you can do

1. Elevate your legs above the level of your heart whenever possible to help reduce swelling.
2. Wear compression stockings if recommended by your healthcare provider.
3. Maintain good skin hygiene to prevent infection.
4. Stay active and maintain a healthy weight.
5. Stay hydrated and avoid alcohol, which can lead to dehydration and worsen nausea.

What you should look out for

Please seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of the following:

• Increasing redness, swelling, or warmth in the affected leg
• Fever or chills
• Increasing pain in your leg
• Rapid onset of shortness of breath or chest pain

Remember, this advice is intended to be general in nature, and specific causes may not apply to your situation. Always consult with a healthcare provider for appropriate examination, diagnosis, and treatment.