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What Self Help Measures Should I Take For Swollen Left Ankle And Reddish Discoloration In Both Lower Legs?
Question: I am 72 , a male with swollen left ankle and reddish discoloration of both lower legs. What self help measures should I take?
Brief Answer:
different possible causes
Detailed Answer:
Hi,
Swelling of one ankle or leg can be due to different possible causes. Some of the more common causes are- (1) arthritis or trauma to the area
(2) infection of the skin or underlying tissues
(3)varicose veins can affect one or both legs/ankles
(4)allergic reaction of the skin in the area
(5) a blood clot
Heart, liver or kidney disease or side effect of medication would normally cause swelling of both legs/ankles.
Since both have discoloration, it is possible that both the discoloration and swelling (in the one) may be due to venous disease.
Definite diagnosis would require an examination from your doctor
Treatment- Elevating the legs whenever possible to allow blood to flow back to the heart
If there is pain in the ankle then the use of anti inflammatory medications such as naproxen or ibuprofen- may be helpful
The use of a mild steroid cream may help with the itching eg hydrocortisone, this is over the counter.
I hope this helps, feel free to ask any other questions
different possible causes
Detailed Answer:
Hi,
Swelling of one ankle or leg can be due to different possible causes. Some of the more common causes are- (1) arthritis or trauma to the area
(2) infection of the skin or underlying tissues
(3)varicose veins can affect one or both legs/ankles
(4)allergic reaction of the skin in the area
(5) a blood clot
Heart, liver or kidney disease or side effect of medication would normally cause swelling of both legs/ankles.
Since both have discoloration, it is possible that both the discoloration and swelling (in the one) may be due to venous disease.
Definite diagnosis would require an examination from your doctor
Treatment- Elevating the legs whenever possible to allow blood to flow back to the heart
If there is pain in the ankle then the use of anti inflammatory medications such as naproxen or ibuprofen- may be helpful
The use of a mild steroid cream may help with the itching eg hydrocortisone, this is over the counter.
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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