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Suggest Treatment For Swelling In The Left Leg And Ankles

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Posted on Fri, 28 Apr 2017
Question: This afternoon I've experienced swelling in my left leg from thigh to foot.

I've had both my ankles swell before, but not just the one and not the whole leg
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Answered by Dr. Bonnie Berger-Durnbaugh (22 minutes later)
Brief Answer:
Information

Detailed Answer:
Hello and welcome,

Having swelling in just one leg is concerning because it can mean that there is a clot in a deep vein just above the level of the swelling. I strongly recommend that you go in to the ER where they can examine you and get an ultrasound of the leg to rule out a DVT (deep vein thrombosis). Sometimes the problem is more superficial (which is a safer situation) but having a deep vein thrombosis ruled out is imperative.

The problem with a DVT is that it can release some of the clot into your circulation where it can go to other places and cause trouble, such as your lungs.

So do go in now and have it looked at.

I hope this information helps. If I can provide further information to help, please let me know.
Note: For further inquiries on surgery procedure and its risks or complications book an appointment now
Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
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Answered by
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Dr. Bonnie Berger-Durnbaugh

General & Family Physician

Practicing since :1991

Answered : 3133 Questions

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Suggest Treatment For Swelling In The Left Leg And Ankles

Brief Answer: Information Detailed Answer: Hello and welcome, Having swelling in just one leg is concerning because it can mean that there is a clot in a deep vein just above the level of the swelling. I strongly recommend that you go in to the ER where they can examine you and get an ultrasound of the leg to rule out a DVT (deep vein thrombosis). Sometimes the problem is more superficial (which is a safer situation) but having a deep vein thrombosis ruled out is imperative. The problem with a DVT is that it can release some of the clot into your circulation where it can go to other places and cause trouble, such as your lungs. So do go in now and have it looked at. I hope this information helps. If I can provide further information to help, please let me know.