What Causes Inflammation With Swelling On Ankle And Foot?

Posted on Wed, 14 May 2014

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

Wed, 14 May 2014 Answered on

Sat, 31 May 2014 Last reviewed on

Question : I have a swollen left ankle and foot that are turning red and feel very full of fluid or something. what could be the cause? I have low blood pressure, a thyroid condition, low blood sugar and tingling and numbness in my left hand. I also suffer from deppression

Answered by Dr. Karl Logan (30 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Cellulitis

Detailed Answer:
hi,

thanks for your question.

I would be worried with those symptoms that you may be developing an infection in the skin. this is called a cellulitis.

you should be physically assessed by a dr and have some blood work performed to check your white cell count, CRP and ESR. you should also have blood cultures done to look for bacteria in your blood stream.

the treatment is antibiotics. a cephalosporin such as cefazolin is a reasonable choice.

if the infection is not to bad oral antibiotics may suffice otherwise you may need some IV therapy.

I hope this answers you question.

best wishes

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Yogesh D

Follow up: Dr. Karl Logan (3 hours later)

I thought it might be a sprain because I tripped over my cat going down the stairs the other night but it is starting to tingle and spread up my calf. semi painful. ive been out of sorts also and have broken out on my chest and back

Answered by Dr. Karl Logan (6 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Sprain more likely

Detailed Answer:
hi,

thanks for your follow up question and the pictures.

it doesn't look like cellulitis on the pictures.

with the additional information you provided and the pictures I would have to agree with you that the most likely diagnosis is a sprain.

rest, ice, a compressive bandage and elevating your ankle should help. if it is very painful and walking boot (3d boot) or cast can be helpful to mobilise. crutches may also help you get around for the 1st couple of weeks. antiinflammatory medication should help with the pain. physiotherapy is often beneficial to speed recovery.

best wishes

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Prasad