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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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What Causes Swelling, Pain And Redness On Lower Leg?

Hi, Writing for a male 55 years old, morbidly obese with history of stroke at 45 years, COPD and atrial fibrillation. On antihypertensives, Symbicor (spelling?), and diuretics, with right lower leg swelling (ankle, calf, knee are each about 1 larger than left), some redness and heat. Has complained of occasional pain in right leg for several months but acute exacerbation today.
posted on Sat, 2 Jul 2016
Twitter Mon, 25 Nov 2019 Answered on
Twitter Thu, 28 Nov 2019 Last reviewed on
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General Surgeon,  's  Response
Hi,

Well, there are several possible causes. This may be a beginning of leg cellulitis which is inflammation of subcutaneous tissues and may develop into diabetic foot or even diabetic gangrene so any swelling, redness or pain in legs in someone who has diabetes should be evaluated by medical professionals since antibiotics may have to be started as soon as possible to prevent spreading of infection.

He should do at least basic blood tests and blood sugar to see if there is a significant infection or not. Other causes include deep vein thrombosis or lymphedema and these should be checked with an ultrasound exam.

Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.

Take care

Regards,
Dr Iven Romic Rommstein, General Surgeon
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What Causes Swelling, Pain And Redness On Lower Leg?

Hi, Well, there are several possible causes. This may be a beginning of leg cellulitis which is inflammation of subcutaneous tissues and may develop into diabetic foot or even diabetic gangrene so any swelling, redness or pain in legs in someone who has diabetes should be evaluated by medical professionals since antibiotics may have to be started as soon as possible to prevent spreading of infection. He should do at least basic blood tests and blood sugar to see if there is a significant infection or not. Other causes include deep vein thrombosis or lymphedema and these should be checked with an ultrasound exam. Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further. Take care Regards, Dr Iven Romic Rommstein, General Surgeon