What Causes Swollen Feet And Calves?

Posted on Fri, 27 May 2016

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

Fri, 27 May 2016 Answered on

Mon, 4 Jul 2016 Last reviewed on

Question : I have severely swollen feet and calves for about a week now. I would like to attach some pics if possible. I had this same condition happen twice last year and after two -three weeks it just went away

Answered by Dr. Dr. Abhay A Mali (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
You need immediate evaluation.

Detailed Answer:
Hi,

Thanks for your question.
Noted your concern.

After going through your question & picture, I may suggest to consult your doctor immediately.

In such a case there is a high possibility of
1) Cellulitis : infection of skin or underlying soft tissue.
2) Deep vein thrombosis : clotting in venous system of leg.

These two conditions need to be ruled out on priority basis.
Which requires detailed physical examination & Ultrasound with Venous doppler of leg.

Following investigations may be suggested in such a case -
- X-ray of foot with ankle joint.
- Complete blood count.
- HbA1c.
- Fasting & Pist-prandial blood sugar levels.
- Renal function test including serum uric acid.
- Liver function test.
- Urine examination.

Gout may be one of rare possibility I may not consider it in your case.
Gout usually affect great toe and ankle joint initially.

Hope this helps you.

Regards,
Dr. Abhay Mali.
Diabetologist.

Note: For further follow-up, discuss your blood glucose reports with our diabetologist. Click here.

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