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Why Am I Experiencing Large Bruises Along With Itching On My Left Thigh, Behind My Knee And On My Back?
Question: Hi.
I am experiencing large bruises on my left thigh. There is also bruising on the back of my right leg behind the knee. The largest bruise is about the size of a softball. When I woke up this morning it was red in the center of the bruise, swollen, and moderately warm to the touch. I also have itching in these areas, which was more intense last night, with less itching this afternoon. I have a low grade (<100 deg) fever. I walk approximately 3 -5 miles per day.
I just found what looked like a tick (alive) on my upper thigh. I took it outside and killed it, but saved it for examination by using duct tape to remove it from the cement Since today is a National holiday, I have hesitated to seek medical exam from a medical clinic. Should I wait to see if I can get in with GP tomorrow or soon after?
I am experiencing large bruises on my left thigh. There is also bruising on the back of my right leg behind the knee. The largest bruise is about the size of a softball. When I woke up this morning it was red in the center of the bruise, swollen, and moderately warm to the touch. I also have itching in these areas, which was more intense last night, with less itching this afternoon. I have a low grade (<100 deg) fever. I walk approximately 3 -5 miles per day.
I just found what looked like a tick (alive) on my upper thigh. I took it outside and killed it, but saved it for examination by using duct tape to remove it from the cement Since today is a National holiday, I have hesitated to seek medical exam from a medical clinic. Should I wait to see if I can get in with GP tomorrow or soon after?
Brief Answer:
Tick bite
Detailed Answer:
Hello and Welcome
I appreciate your concern
After removal of the tick, wash the area and hand with soap water. Survey the body for any other ticks. Change the clothes and preferably take a bath.
A single dose of prophylactic antibiotic is an option to prevent any complication associated with tick bite and to prevent the onset of lyme disease. This option can be discussed with your physician. It wont treat the tick bite but may prevent complications.
Watchful observation for 1 to 2 weeks is done to see for the development of a flu like illness or a rash. The classic rash is a bulls eye rash associated with Lyme. But in most people this classic appearance isn't appreciated and a generalized plethoric rash is usually seen.
If you do get this flu like illness or rash then it signifies early Lyme disease which is easily treatable and you should call your physician immediately to start the treatment with the appropriate antibiotics as soon as possible.
Testing the tick is done in some places but is usually not recommended. You may ask your physician if that facility is available. It wont affect the overall management.
Wishing you best of health
Thanks
Let me know if you have any query
Please consult your doctor before deciding on any further course of action.
For future follow up / correspondence you may ask me directly at the link given below
http://doctor.healthcaremagic.com/Funnel?page=askDoctorDirectly&docId=68107
Dr. M.S. Khalil
Tick bite
Detailed Answer:
Hello and Welcome
I appreciate your concern
After removal of the tick, wash the area and hand with soap water. Survey the body for any other ticks. Change the clothes and preferably take a bath.
A single dose of prophylactic antibiotic is an option to prevent any complication associated with tick bite and to prevent the onset of lyme disease. This option can be discussed with your physician. It wont treat the tick bite but may prevent complications.
Watchful observation for 1 to 2 weeks is done to see for the development of a flu like illness or a rash. The classic rash is a bulls eye rash associated with Lyme. But in most people this classic appearance isn't appreciated and a generalized plethoric rash is usually seen.
If you do get this flu like illness or rash then it signifies early Lyme disease which is easily treatable and you should call your physician immediately to start the treatment with the appropriate antibiotics as soon as possible.
Testing the tick is done in some places but is usually not recommended. You may ask your physician if that facility is available. It wont affect the overall management.
Wishing you best of health
Thanks
Let me know if you have any query
Please consult your doctor before deciding on any further course of action.
For future follow up / correspondence you may ask me directly at the link given below
http://doctor.healthcaremagic.com/Funnel?page=askDoctorDirectly&docId=68107
Dr. M.S. Khalil
Note: For further queries, consult a joint and bone specialist, an Orthopaedic surgeon. Book a Call now.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Raju A.T
Answered by
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