Suggest Treatment For A Red Swollen Area On The Leg

Posted on Mon, 13 Jun 2016

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

Mon, 13 Jun 2016 Answered on

Fri, 8 Jul 2016 Last reviewed on

Question : Hi. I'm hoping you can provide some guidance. Friday night my left lower shin was sore/tender. I did not see a bruise at the time and didn't know what it was from. The next day I noticed a very small bump on my shin which developed to a barely noticeable bruise but by that evening below that area became hot and red and the now is somewhat swollen. It's tender to the touch but not necessarily painful. I'm flying at the end of the week for business and am hoping it is not something to be more concerned about. Any guidance you can provide is appreciated. Thank you.

Answered by Dr. Ronald Schubert (-3 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Cellulitis

Detailed Answer:
Thank you for contacting HCM with your health concerns

I am sorry to hear that you are bothered by a red swollen area on your leg. This looks like an infection called cellulitis. Sometimes these infections start by a small trauma to the leg and even from a scratch. I think you need to see your medical provider and started on oral antibiotics. Once you are on antibiotics you will be able to travel without concern this Friday. If you can't be seen today then I recommend being seen in an urgent care center. It is best to start treatment early before it gets out of control

I hope I answered your question. Please contact us again if you have any additional questions

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar