What Could Cause Leg Burning, Swelling, And Redness In An Obese Grandfather With Diabetes, Arthritis, And Prostate Issues?

Hello, A combination of burning pain, swelling, and redness in an elderly man with diabetes and very limited mobility points strongly to two very common issues: 1. Cellulitis of the leg (skin infection). When the leg becomes red, warm, swollen, and painful, this is often the first thing I think of in a diabetic patient. Poor circulation along with long periods of sitting, and even a small unnoticed skin crack can lead to infection. In older adults, this can spread quickly and cause significant swelling. 2. Diabetic nerve damage and poor circulation. The burning sensation you described is so typical of diabetic neuropathy, especially in a person who has had diabetes for many years and cannot get around much. Poor blood circulation in the legs is due to age, diabetes, obesity, and inactivity that irritates the nerves and causes swelling of the tissues. This aggravates infection and delays healing. At his age, and with his medical conditions, both problems can easily occur together. My honest clinical opinion this is a condition that cannot be managed at home. He will require an in-person examination because: • If this is cellulitis, he will need oral antibiotics and, in some cases, intravenous antibiotics if the redness is spreading. • His circulation and blood sugar need to be checked because infection that is not treated could become serious in diabetics. • Swelling this prominent also needs evaluation for vein problems or fluid retention. • Burning pain needs to be evaluated because medications for neuropathy are usually required when the pain starts to impact daily function. What I would normally do for a patient like him in my clinic (Not giving exact doses herein): • Start an appropriate antibiotic immediately when cellulitis is seen. • Additional neuropathy medication to reduce burning sensation. • Check his blood sugar, kidney function, and foot circulation. • Advise leg elevation, gentle movement, and salt restriction for the swelling. • If the swelling is severe, consider a diuretic, but only after examining him. • He should not have any wounds or cracks that can facilitate worse infection. Why this happened is the long-standing diabetes, obesity, low mobility, and probably poor circulation have all combined to gradually weaken the tissues in his leg. Any minor infection or fluid accumulation then causes significant redness, swelling, and burning. This did not happen overnight, it is a combination of many years of strain on his legs. ⸻ Please have him see a doctor soon. A visit to a general physician or a local hospital is the right step. In aged diabetic patients, neglect of infection and swelling on the legs can rapidly deteriorate. You acted at the right time by asking for help; all he needs now is an appropriate in-person assessment so treatment can begin. Take care. Hope I have answered your question. If you have any further query I will be happy to help. Wish you good health. Regards, Dr. Usaid Yousuf, General and Family Physician