Should I Consult My Doctor About Unexplained Leg Discomfort?
Hello, I’m a 32-year-old woman, a smoker, and I’m not on any medications. I don’t have a specific medical diagnosis aside from having one leg that’s slightly shorter than the other, along with stiff, clicking joints, very heavy menstrual cycles, and cysts. I’ve dealt with this recurring leg discomfort for as long as I can remember. The pain lasts for several days unpredictably, and there can be weeks when I feel completely fine. There are times when I experience pain in my "sit bones," making it uncomfortable to sit or apply pressure to the area. During these episodes, the skin stretching from my buttocks to my upper thigh, particularly in areas where I have cellulite, becomes incredibly sensitive and painful. This pain doesn't feel like it's coming from muscle; it’s a constant ache that intensifies with even the slightest touch. Just the fabric of my loose jeans grazing against my skin can be painful, and even a gentle finger touch or sitting down triggers discomfort. Typically, this goes away after a few days. Interestingly, there are no visible changes to the skin—just a few small spider veins but no redness, rashes, or bumps. I’m uncertain if this is a common issue or something I should disregard, or if I should seek advice from my local doctor. On a different note, several months ago, I took a significant dosage of amitriptyline. Thankfully, I’m okay now, but since then, I've noticed a sharp throbbing sensation behind my sternum. Initially, it was intermittent, but now it feels nearly constant. The throbbing is centrally located at the back of my sternum, occurring whether or not I’m breathing. I'm curious if this could be something to worry about. Although I didn’t think it was connected to the amitriptyline, I feel it’s worth mentioning since it started around that time. Thank you for any insights you can provide. Apologies for the lengthy message!
Answers (1)
8/8/2025, 5:10:46 PM
OpenHealth AI
It's completely understandable to have concerns about your leg discomfort and the sensation behind your sternum. Your symptoms merit attention, especially considering their impact on your daily life and your history. Here's a breakdown of your situation:
Main Points:
- Recurring Leg Discomfort: You have a long history of leg discomfort with specific characteristics that could indicate a couple of potential issues.
- Throbbing Sensation Behind Sternum: The change in sensation in your chest area following a past medication dosage could be significant and should not be overlooked.
Explanation:
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Leg Discomfort: The pain you're experiencing in your legs, particularly around your sit bones, combined with your unique anatomy (slightly shorter leg and stiffness), could be linked to several factors, such as nerve irritation, referred pain, or possibly structural issues. The sensitivity you're describing is particularly noteworthy and might be related to conditions affecting soft tissues or joints, especially if there are no visible skin changes.
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Sternum Sensation: The throbbing sensation behind your sternum warrants attention as it can be associated with various conditions, ranging from benign musculoskeletal pain to issues that could affect your heart or lungs. Since you mentioned the medication amitriptyline, while it's possible that the two are unrelated, it could still signify an underlying concern that needs evaluation.
Next Steps:
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Monitor Your Symptoms:
- Keep a detailed log of your leg pain episodes, noting when they occur, their duration, any activities that precede them, and relief measures that help. This will help identify patterns and triggers.
- Similarly, note the nature and frequency of the throbbing sensation behind your sternum, including any associated symptoms, such as shortness of breath or other discomfort.
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Self-Care Measures:
- Consider gentle stretching and strengthening exercises for your legs and hips, focusing on flexibility to alleviate stiffness.
- Apply heat or ice packs when you feel discomfort, as this can provide temporary relief.
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Consult a Healthcare Provider:
- Given the specificity and recurrence of your symptoms, it’s advisable to schedule an appointment with your local doctor or a specialist when you're ready. Share your symptom diary, as it will provide valuable insight for them.
- They may recommend imaging or further tests to rule out any issues related to your musculoskeletal health or vascular system, especially since leg discomfort coupled with your description of sensitivity can sometimes indicate deeper issues.
Empathy and Reassurance:
It’s understandable to feel worried about unusual pain and new sensations. Advocating for your health by seeking answers is important, and you’re doing the right thing by reaching out and considering all aspects of your health. Please remember that many factors can contribute to your symptoms, and addressing them can lead to relief. You’re taking the first step in this journey, and it’s okay to seek help. If you ever feel that your symptoms worsen or change significantly, don’t hesitate to reach out for immediate assistance.
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