HealthCareMagic is now Ask A Doctor - 24x7 | https://www.askadoctor24x7.com

Suggest Treatment For Swelling Of Feet In A Smoker

Posted on Sat, 31 May 2014

Question: Hello, I was recently diagnosed with a fairly severe case of cellulitus of both feet, mainly in toes and pads of feet, with some scaling and much redness and swelling. 3 courses of antibiotics have not helped much, and I have an appoint with a vascular surgeon to identify the root problem and solution. It's more than cellulitis. I was a heavy smoker for 50 years, and quit 2 years ago. I have no history of physical disease or problem BUT, since early childhood my feet swell hugely when I run any distance, swelling to the extent that I cannot walk. The problem was never diagnosed but continues to this day. Is there a vascular surgery, or other treatment, for feet not getting needed circulation? My toes are still red and swollen, and my feet have a constant throbbing sensation, but I can walk fine. Any thoughts on what's available today, or what I might do? Thank you, XXXXXXX

Answered by Dr. Vaibhav Gandhi (2 hours later)

Brief Answer:
3 D CT angiography will give exact position.

Detailed Answer:
Hello

I have studied your case,

Due to long years of smoking there may be possibility of chronic ischemia to limb due vascular occlusion.

Colour Doppler may help in diagnosis and 3 D CT angiography will give exact position of circulation to lower limb.

There are many medications to improve blood circulation like pentoxyphylline; you can start them consulting your doctor.
Micro vascular surgery like bypass grafting can be done considering CT angiography report.

Consulting your doctor cellulitis can be confirmed, antibiotic can be changed to improve symptoms.
If there is collection formation then surgical drainage may be required.
This can be due to previous vasculitis.

Hope this answers your query. If you have additional questions or follow up queries then please do not hesitate in writing to us. I will be happy to answer your queries.

Wishing you good health.

Take care.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Vaibhav Gandhi (13 minutes later)

Thanks, Dr Ghandi, for a thorough consideration based on my limited information. I will see a vascular surgeon next Wednesday. Still, I want to ask if you have any ideas as to my inability to run more than a few feet, Eve since childhood. I have never pursued a diagnosis, presuming it was not knowable. After a block of running, even as a young teen, my ankles swelled so much I could not walk well for 2 or 3 days. Obviously, I was removed from my team sports team, and later removed from basic training in the military because the doctor examined my feet and simply said, "no more running."
Now, at age 69, my feet are always tingling and sore, even at resting. I would so appreciate any suggestions or observations. Thank you.

Answered by Dr. Vaibhav Gandhi (2 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Explained below

Detailed Answer:
Hello Mr XXXXXXX

It is difficult to comment on childhood problem without physically examining you and diagnosing the problem.

Usually childhood lower limb problem are related to musculoskeletal disorders.
Another possibility of lumbar canal stenosis which can be ruled out by MRI spine.

Till time For these symptoms analgesic and neurotropic medication can be started.
Physiotherapy like ultrasound and interferential therapy will give quick relief.
I will advise to check your vit B12 and vit D3 level.

Hope this answers your query. If you have additional questions or follow up queries then please do not hesitate in writing to us. I will be happy to answer your queries.

Wishing you good health.

Take care.

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