Suggest Treatment For Swelling And Redness In The Lower Legs

Posted on Wed, 31 Aug 2016

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

Wed, 31 Aug 2016 Answered on

Tue, 20 Sep 2016 Last reviewed on

Question : I have had edema, extreme redness (changes in skin color) in lower left leg for 5 or more years. It feels heavy and the swelling is there most of the time. I was diagnosed with chronic vein insufficiency for years and the great saphenous vein was ablated 3 years ago. Everything went away after that. I hurt the same lower leg when a piece of iron came off a step and hit me. All the problems returned. No one can find a vein problem although I do have a problem somewhere. I had my heart checked, my kidneys, etc. - no problem noted. I have been too several doctors but to no avail. What is my problem?

Answered by Dr. Rishi (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
Seems like CVI with Lymphedema.

Detailed Answer:
Hello.
Thanks for your question.
Firstly Chronic Venous Insufficiency or CVI as we call it does not completely degree with GSV ablation as CVI happens due to Deep Venous valve reflux. Therefore the CVI is still there though must have improved after GSV ablation.
Thereafter the injury you sustained would have further damaged the Lymph drainage of the limb leading to Lymphedema. The problems you face now are a conjoint issue of CVI and Lymphedema.
I suggest you start Lymohapress therapy, Tab Daflon 500mg twice a day, wear Compression stockings class II till thigh at all times and sleep with your legs raised above your heart level. Leg end of the bed needs to be raised. These measures will help you control the swelling and redness. If there is associated pain then you should consult a Surgeon or a Vascular Surgeon.
Take care and do let me know if there are any queries on this issue.
Hope for a fast recovery.
Dr Rishi New XXXXXXX XXXXXXX

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