What Could This Be? Should I Visit My Doctor?
Hello everyone, I would truly value your thoughts on an issue I'm experiencing. Some days ago, I discovered a dark bump on the side of my heel that has become quite tender while walking. I can't recall any incident where I might have injured my foot or stepped on anything. This bump wasn't present a week prior. Today, the size of the bump appears to have increased, and there's a bit more discomfort, yet I am still able to walk without any major issues. It's definitely not a blister, as I have already tested it with a sterile needle, and there was no fluid or blood. I hesitate to reach out to my doctor if this isn't something to be overly concerned about. I intended to share some pictures, but I’ve realized that the link doesn't function, so I’ll post the images in the comments section shortly. A little about myself: - Age: 26, Female, Caucasian - Weight: 52.3 kg, Height: 172 cm - No significant medical history - Former smoker - quit four years ago; currently, I use nicotine vapes - I occasionally take ibuprofen, but it’s been weeks since my last dose; no other medications or supplements in my routine Not sure if this is pertinent, but I have tested positive for HPV twice and plan to have follow-up checks next year.
Answers (1)
7/9/2025, 1:50:37 AM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to be concerned about a new bump on your heel, especially since it's become tender and larger over a few days. This could potentially be caused by various factors, including a small cyst, a benign growth, or even inflammation from an unnoticed injury. While this doesn't appear to be an emergency, it’s important to monitor the situation closely.
Here’s a clearer breakdown:
Explanation
- Bump Characteristics: Since the bump is dark, tender, and has increased in size since you first noticed it, the fact that there’s no fluid or blood indicates it might not be a blister but could be something like a cyst, a growth, or an inflamed spot.
- No Noticed Trauma: Your lack of memory regarding an injury suggests it may not have trauma as a primary cause, which could raise the need for further evaluation if it doesn’t improve.
Next Steps (Prioritized)
- Monitor Changes: Keep an eye on the bump for further changes such as increased size, pain, color changes, or any discharge.
- Limit Strain: Avoid activities that aggravate your heel—like excessive walking or standing. Opt for supportive footwear to reduce pressure.
- Ice the Area: Apply ice wrapped in a cloth to the area for about 15-20 minutes, a few times a day to help with inflammation and tenderness if discomfort persists.
- Document Observations: Take notes on any changes, including size, pain levels, and any other symptoms, to discuss if you do see a doctor later on.
- Schedule a Doctor Visit: If the bump does not improve within a week, continues to grow, or if you develop new symptoms (like fever or severe pain), it would be wise to consult your doctor for further evaluation.
Reassurance
It's good that you're being proactive by seeking information. Most bumps like this can often be benign and may resolve on their own, but keeping informed and monitoring your health is always a wise approach. If you have any questions or concerns as you observe the bump, don't hesitate to reach out.
Related Questions
Ongoing Health Concerns and Emerging Symptoms
Age 22, height 5'8", weight 202 lbs. Recently, I have been facing numerous escalating health issues that seem to multiply by the day. Initially, I experienced minor ailments, but now the situation has intensified. The more significant concerns include respiratory difficulties characterized by a persistent dry cough that remains unaffected by my inhaler or any breathing treatments, alongside frequent chest discomfort. I also struggle with nausea, as I find it hard to keep food down, compounded by relentless pain in my lower abdomen, which worsens when lying down. Additionally, I suffer from continuous pain in my back and joints. I have hypermobility in several areas, such as my hips, shoulders, fingers, and wrists, which often results in discomfort due to their tendency to pop or bend excessively. Moreover, I've been dealing with bouts of lightheadedness. In recent weeks, I've experienced episodes of my blood pressure plummeting unexpectedly, alongside some unusual symptoms. I have been informed that my blood pressure can fluctuate from about 130/80 to as low as 90/50 within ten minutes, often leading to dizziness and sometimes vomiting. My heart rate shows erratic behavior too, swinging from 60 to 120 beats per minute without a clear pattern. Today, I discovered small, unexpected bruises appearing on my legs, hands, and occasionally my arms, seemingly overnight. I'm not seeking a diagnosis or a miracle cure from my healthcare provider; I am simply having difficulty managing my situation. I maintain a reasonably active lifestyle when I am able to, although lightheadedness sometimes hinders my activities. I push through discomfort to go for jogs when I can. Despite my efforts to follow a balanced diet, I struggle to lose weight, consistently hovering around the same number. My frustration is mounting, and I find myself questioning whether I should consider changing doctors. My current physician tends to attribute my issues either to my weight or to depression. I am limited to appointments every three months, and each follow-up typically involves the same refrain: "we'll monitor your symptoms." I dislike monopolizing emergency room resources, yet urgent care often directs me back to my primary physician for ongoing issues. I primarily want to know if I should advocate for a new doctor and if there might be other measures I should consider. Thank you for your assistance. Additional medical context includes: - I have a diagnosis of bipolar disorder along with anxiety and am prescribed Lamictal and Escitalopram. - Occasionally, I experience unexplainable allergic reactions despite having only known allergies to certain insects. - My symptoms often appear in pairs; for instance, I might present with a severe cough and a rash without stomach pain, or stomach discomfort may occur alongside a rash but without any cough.
Disparity in Leg Size: Possible Causes
For a considerable period, I have struggled with my weight, yet the noticeable difference in the size of my legs has only developed over the last six to seven years. Initially, my left leg was not larger than my right. On one occasion, I voiced my concern to a physician, but without a thorough examination, he dismissed it as typical. I am beginning to wonder if this could be a case of lymphedema, especially since I've also observed that my left arm appears significantly larger than my right. I would appreciate any insights on this matter.
Bumps on the Rear Side of My Penis
I've noticed several bumps resembling acne on the rear side of my penis. A few of these spots are slightly lighter than the surrounding skin, while others feature white tips. Fortunately, these bumps do not cause any pain or irritation. Regrettably, I can't share an image due to being underage, which would violate the subreddit’s guidelines.
Seeking Help: My Father’s Persistent Hiccups Have Lasted Five Days
Overview: My father, who is 75 years old, has been experiencing relentless hiccups for the past five days, and I am extremely anxious about it. Background: A year ago, he suffered a heart attack and subsequently underwent bypass surgery. He has diabetes but does not engage in drinking or smoking. Overall, he is in good health and weighs approximately 140 pounds. He visited the emergency department yesterday, where doctors performed X-rays on his heart, and the results showed no abnormalities. His blood tests also returned normal findings. As part of the treatment, he was given chlorpromazine, yet even after more than 24 hours of taking the medication, the hiccups persist. He has experienced some chest discomfort, which was the reason for his trip to the emergency room. I am desperate for any suggestions on how he can alleviate the hiccups or insights into what might be causing them. This situation is causing me a great deal of stress, and the thought of losing him is unbearable.
Seeking Advice on My X-ray Findings
I recently received my X-ray findings: - Thoracic kyphosis measured at 51.6 degrees (muscle imbalance, and not related to Scheuermann’s condition) - Lordosis recorded at 55.5 degrees. As a 19-year-old male standing at 5 feet 10 inches, I’m aware that my posture isn’t ideal. I have a couple of pressing questions: - Just how poor is my posture? - After correcting my posture, what potential increase in height can I expect?