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What Causes Pain, Numbness And Swelling In The Left Thigh?
Question: Hi. I have pain, numbness and sometimes swelling in my left thigh that has been on an off for the last year. Recently it has become worse. I can't sleep because when I lay down it is shooting pains in my thigh. It hurts all the time and is effecting my ability to do every day things. I went to the doctor a few times before and even had a CT scan in the ER one night when the pain was really bad. They told me there was nothing wrong. Can you tell me what kind of doctor I should see that could possibly help me? Any idea what is wrong with me? Thanks.
Brief Answer:
may be due to neuropathy
Detailed Answer:
Hi, thanks for using healthcare magic
A neurologist would be your best option.
Numbness most commonly indicates that the nerves in a particular area are not working as they should, this is called neuropathy.
This can cause pain as well though not commonly swelling.
Neuropathy can be due to: (1) vitamin b12 or folate deficiency
(2)diabetes
(3)trauma to the nerves eg arthritis of the spine can affect the nerves that supply the thigh area
(4)diabetes
(5) liver or kidney disease
(6)exposure to toxins
(7)infections such as shingles
(8)some autoimmune or hormonal diseases
(9)neurological diseases such as stroke or ms
Blood tests- vitamin b12, folate, diabetes screening, liver and kidney function tests, complete blood count/ESR (checks for inflammation in the body) should be done
In addition imaging of the spine should also be done if possible
These initial tests should give an idea of the possible cause.
Exact treatment would depend on the cause found but there are medications that are used to help with nerve related discomfort or problems.
I hope this helps, feel free to ask any other questions
may be due to neuropathy
Detailed Answer:
Hi, thanks for using healthcare magic
A neurologist would be your best option.
Numbness most commonly indicates that the nerves in a particular area are not working as they should, this is called neuropathy.
This can cause pain as well though not commonly swelling.
Neuropathy can be due to: (1) vitamin b12 or folate deficiency
(2)diabetes
(3)trauma to the nerves eg arthritis of the spine can affect the nerves that supply the thigh area
(4)diabetes
(5) liver or kidney disease
(6)exposure to toxins
(7)infections such as shingles
(8)some autoimmune or hormonal diseases
(9)neurological diseases such as stroke or ms
Blood tests- vitamin b12, folate, diabetes screening, liver and kidney function tests, complete blood count/ESR (checks for inflammation in the body) should be done
In addition imaging of the spine should also be done if possible
These initial tests should give an idea of the possible cause.
Exact treatment would depend on the cause found but there are medications that are used to help with nerve related discomfort or problems.
I hope this helps, feel free to ask any other questions
Note: For further queries, consult a joint and bone specialist, an Orthopaedic surgeon. Book a Call now.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Answered by
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