Suggest Remedies For Swollen Left Foot, Leg And Knee

Posted on Fri, 22 Apr 2016

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Fri, 22 Apr 2016 Answered on

Tue, 14 Jun 2016 Last reviewed on

Question : My left foot and leg from the knee down has been swollen for about 10 days now, rest and or elevation does not seem to make it subside

Answered by Dr. Harish Naik (52 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Provide additional information

Detailed Answer:
Hi
Welcome.
I have gone through your query.
I would like to know little more about it so that I can provide you with specific advice.
Had you sprained your ankle recently?
Do you have any other medical illness like hypertension, heart related problem, diabetes.
Are you taking any medication?
Do you smoke or take alcohol?
If you press the swelling, is it tense or an indentation can be seen?
Is the swollen areas are red and feel warm to the touch?

Kindly provide this information, I'll be glad to help you out.
Take care

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Arnab Banerjee

Follow up: Dr. Harish Naik (50 minutes later)

Thank you Dr. Naik, I do have hypertension, and take medication for that, HYZAR, I do not drink or smoke, and I have not injured my ankle, but I did injur my knee on XXXXXXX 21, I had a fall. I went through therapy for a month and did well. I am having some problem with my back since I have had the swelling in my foot and leg as well, I am sure that is because my gait isn't what it should be, any suggestion on how to get and keep the swelling down would be greatly appreciated. Thank you!!

also, when I press on the swollen part, I can see an indention, but it is not red or warm to the touch.

Answered by Dr. Harish Naik (22 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Venous insufficiency, DVT, Lymphedema

Detailed Answer:
Hi XXXXXXX
Thanks for providing the information.
Unilateral pitting edema is due to local causes. It can be due be due to venous insufficiency, DVT or Lymphedema. Venous insufficiency may be less likely, as in here the swelling reduce with rest.

Presently I would suggest you wear support stockings. These stockings are available in most drug stores. Elevate your legs as much as possible. When lying down, put a knee wedge pillow under your legs to elevate them above your heart. Avoid too much salt in your diet.

Talk to a vascular doctor as soon as possible and let them sort it out for you.

This provisional advice provided by me is based entirely on the input provided to me. I would suggest examination by the doctor.

I hope this suggestion might be of some help to you.
Take care.

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Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Arnab Banerjee