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What Causes Swollen Legs And Ankles?

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Posted on Tue, 19 May 2015
Question: Yes, please. I have extremely swollen legs & ankles, used to be only left one w/ chronic swelling & cellulitis occasionally but now both including knees. Infectious disease dr. says maybe vascular dermititis or lymph edema but on-line info. suggests maybe related to potassium absorption. I am 76 & have multiple health issues & drs. & everyone shuffles it off to someone else, so no real diagnosis/. Recent swelling is worse w/ difficulty getting into legs of slacks - so tight. Any thoughts, please. E-mail is: YYYY@YYYY
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Answered by Dr. Hari Charan Perigela (5 hours later)
Brief Answer:
It looks like Lymphoedema.

Detailed Answer:
Hi
As per your description, it looks like Lymphoedema on both sides.
Infection may occur and lead to Cellulitis sometimes. Then the overlying skin will be red,shiny,tense etc.etc.There will be Fever also.
You should get an Ultrasound of both lower Limbs along with Colour doppler to rule out any vascular cause.
If at all it is due to fluid overload,it should come down with diuretics. It's not happening.
Please keep your limbs elevated most of the times.Do not strain your legs by walking.
Please consult your doctor and get above said investigations.
Hope I answered your query. If you have any questions, I will clarify further.
Wish you good health.
Regards
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Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Yogesh D
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Answered by
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Dr. Hari Charan Perigela

General Surgeon

Practicing since :1995

Answered : 2716 Questions

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What Causes Swollen Legs And Ankles?

Brief Answer: It looks like Lymphoedema. Detailed Answer: Hi As per your description, it looks like Lymphoedema on both sides. Infection may occur and lead to Cellulitis sometimes. Then the overlying skin will be red,shiny,tense etc.etc.There will be Fever also. You should get an Ultrasound of both lower Limbs along with Colour doppler to rule out any vascular cause. If at all it is due to fluid overload,it should come down with diuretics. It's not happening. Please keep your limbs elevated most of the times.Do not strain your legs by walking. Please consult your doctor and get above said investigations. Hope I answered your query. If you have any questions, I will clarify further. Wish you good health. Regards