Orthopaedic Surgeon Questions Orthopaedic Surgeon

Emergency or not?

I am a 37 year old female. My right foot and ankle have been severely swollen for 3 days now. Constantly. there's also a red rash not itchy though, located on the inside of my leg. It's coming from my ankle, to right below my calf. It feels silky and looks shiny. It's also painful to the touch, not my foot but my ankle and around my lower leg area. I have dealt with swollen ankles for years now. I was working then but no longer working. Plus I never got a red rash before as well.

Female | 37 years old
Complaint duration: 3 days
Medications: NA
Conditions: smoker

7 Answers

It's important to seek medical attention as soon as possible. The severe and persistent swelling, accompanied by a red rash and pain in the ankle and lower leg, warrants a thorough evaluation by a healthcare professional. It could be indicative of an underlying condition that needs to be addressed. Please consult with a doctor to determine the cause and appropriate treatment for your symptoms.

Join my free chronic pain masterclass to gain more knowledge and additional strategies for reducing pain.

Click This Link: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/chronic-pain-masterclass-tickets-662375632347
There are a few causes of ankle swelling. You need to see a physician and check uric acid to rule out gout as one of the causes. A physical exam is needed.

I recommend that you see a vascular doctor asap.
You need to be checked ASAP for a blood clot/DVT if one leg is significantly more swollen than the other. And for the general issue, you need to see a cardiologist ASAP.
I recommend you make an appointment with a foot and ankle surgeon (podiatrist) or PCP for diagnosis and treatment options. This sounds like it could be cellulitis, which is an infection of the soft tissue and you may require antibiotics, even Intravenous antibiotics
May have a cellulitis skin infection.Need to get the swelling out plus antibiotics.See your doctor pronto.
It sounds like you have been bitten by an insect and have an allergic reaction. You also may have cellulitis, which is a much more dangerous condition. You certainly should have medical attention.

Christopher B. Michelsen, MD, FAOA, FAAOS, FACS