Unexpected Ankle Swelling Without Injury
At 29 years old, I’m a woman diagnosed with EDS and CRPS in my right hand. I don't smoke and acknowledge that I am on the heavier side. Yesterday morning, I awoke to discover my ankles were unusually swollen on both sides. The discomfort is significant, making it difficult to sit or walk. I have attempted to alleviate the issue by elevating my feet, applying compression, and using ice, yet I remain quite anxious about the sudden onset of this problem. Today, I visited my doctor, who scheduled a physiotherapy appointment for the end of the month. I can’t help but feel that this is too long to wait for help. Although I’m contemplating a trip to the emergency department, I’m hesitant because I don’t wish to burden them unnecessarily. Interestingly, there is no warmth or discoloration present, but I do experience a sensation of weakness and a slight numbness. Occasionally, it feels as though there are mild tingling sensations alongside pins and needles—about a level 1 on a scale of 10 for discomfort. Any guidance or advice would be immensely appreciated, as I’m concerned this might evolve into another area affected by CRPS.
Answers (1)
7/3/2025, 10:30:49 PM
OpenHealth AI
Main Points: Sudden ankle swelling can be concerning, especially with your background of Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) and Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS). While you’re taking some good initial steps, monitoring your symptoms closely and determining if immediate medical attention is necessary is important.
Explanation: Ankle swelling, especially when it's sudden and without injury, can arise from several causes. In your case, factors such as EDS may contribute to joint instability or fluid retention. Since you mentioned significant discomfort, weakness, and tingling, it’s excellent that you've already started elevating your feet and using ice; these actions can help reduce swelling. The absence of warmth or discoloration is reassuring and may reduce the likelihood of an acute inflammation issue like a deep vein thrombosis (DVT), but your existing health conditions can complicate matters.
Next Steps:
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of any changes in your symptoms, including the severity of swelling, any new sensations, or changes in mobility. Note when the swelling increases or decreases, and how it feels throughout the day.
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Rest and Elevate: Continue to elevate your feet; this can assist in reducing swelling. Rest as much as possible, avoiding strenuous activities that could exacerbate discomfort.
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Compression Wear: Since you've been using compression, consider wearing a compression bandage or stockings designed for swelling (but make sure they’re not overly tight or uncomfortable).
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Self-Care Techniques: In addition to ice, consider gentle range-of-motion exercises as tolerated, since they could improve circulation without overexertion. Focus on moving your toes and parts of your feet.
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Stay Hydrated and Diet: Make sure you're drinking enough fluids—hydration can help reduce swelling. Pay attention to salt intake as it can contribute to fluid retention.
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Emergency Consideration: If swelling worsens, you develop severe pain, redness, or warmth, or if you notice any rapid changes in sensation or mobility, don't hesitate to seek emergency care. It's crucial to prioritize your health.
Take care of yourself, and don’t hesitate to reach out to healthcare professionals if your symptoms worsen or if you're feeling uncertain—you're not burdening anyone by seeking help when it feels necessary.
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