Persistent Swelling in Left Leg for Two Months
I’m a 45-year-old woman with a background of plantar fasciitis and some knee cartilage deterioration. Earlier in January, while working, I was repeatedly bending down when I suddenly felt a sharp pain. Although I continued my tasks, I noticed later at home that my left leg was around 3 centimeters larger than my right, specifically between the ankle and knee, accompanied by visible broken blood vessels behind my knee. I promptly visited a clinic to rule out deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and fortunately received a clean bill of health. A few days later, I was sent to a hospital for a more detailed ultrasound of both legs, along with an electrocardiogram (ECG) and blood tests, including a D-dimer check. All results were normal, leaving the doctors confused. Fast forward two months, and my left leg remains swollen, approximately 1 centimeter more than before. The swelling has also extended into my foot. While elevating my leg provides some relief, the swelling persists and is accompanied by daily discomfort. I'm uncertain about the next steps. Could this edema be solely related to the condition of my knee? Is there a way to address it? Which type of specialist should I consult at this point?
Answers (1)
3/28/2025, 12:50:34 AM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you’re experiencing persistent swelling in your left leg that has not improved despite initial evaluations, which can be quite frustrating. Since you have already ruled out deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and received normal test results, further investigation into other potential causes is a sensible next step.
Explanation
Swelling in one leg, especially after a sharp pain, can arise from various factors. These include injuries, inflammation from conditions like arthritis, or even issues with circulation. Given your history of knee cartilage deterioration, it's plausible that the swelling may relate to joint or soft tissue issues. However, it's essential to consider other sources, such as lymphatic problems or secondary conditions arising from the knee or ankle.
Next Steps
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Communicate Symptoms: Track and document changes in your symptoms, such as changes in size, color, temperature, and your overall discomfort level. This information can prove helpful to any specialist you consult next.
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Engage a Specialist: Considering your symptoms, I recommend seeing a rheumatologist first. They can assess for any underlying inflammatory conditions and link this to your previous knee issues. If they find no joint-related issues, a referral to a vascular specialist (for possible lymphatic or circulation concerns) may be necessary.
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Self-Care Strategies: While you wait for your specialist appointment, continue elevating your leg regularly, which can help reduce swelling. Compression stockings may offer support—discuss the appropriate type with a pharmacist or healthcare provider. Additionally, gentle stretching and elevating your legs when resting can facilitate circulation.
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Monitor Symptoms: Pay attention to any new symptoms, such as changes in color, warmth, increased pain, or any systemic symptoms like fever—these should be addressed promptly.
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Consider a Physical Therapist: A session with a physical therapist may also help you explore exercises or modalities to improve leg function and reduce swelling while considering your history of plantar fasciitis and knee issues.
Seek these avenues, and I hope you find some clarity and relief soon. Please feel free to ask more questions if you have them—I'm here to help!
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# 7-Month-Old Child with Abernethy Malformation - Exploring Treatment Options ## [7-Month-Old] Identified with Abernethy Malformation (Congenital Portosystemic Shunt) - Treatment Methods? **Age:** 7 months **Gender:** Female **Height:** Age-appropriate **Weight:** Currently 9 kg, was 2.8 kg at birth **Ethnicity:** Asian **Duration of Symptoms:** Present since birth **Location:** Uzbekistan **Pre-existing Health Issues:** Abernethy malformation (congenital portosystemic shunt), liver hemangiomas, chronic jaundice, anemia **Current Treatments:** Supportive management --- ## INITIAL PRESENTATION (June 2025 - July 2025) Our daughter arrived on **June 27, 2025**, presenting with: - Birth weight: **2.8 kg** - Marked jaundice (yellowing of skin and sclera) - Pale or clay-colored stools - **Bilirubin level: 245 μmol/L** (typically <20) An immediate ultrasound indicated multiple liver anomalies, initially thought to be hemangiomas. --- ## FIRST COMPREHENSIVE ASSESSMENT (August 1, 2025 - 1 Month Old) ### Multislice Computed Tomography (MSCT) with 3-Phase Contrast (August 1, 2025): **RESULTS:** - 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