If you notice sudden redness, warmth, or swelling in one leg, it should never be overlooked. These signs can indicate a potentially serious health issue that needs prompt evaluation.
A key concern is deep vein thrombosis (DVT). This occurs when a blood clot forms in a deep vein, usually in the leg, obstructing blood flow. If the clot dislodges, it can travel to the lungs, causing a life-threatening pulmonary embolism.
Another possibility is cellulitis, a bacterial skin infection that can spread quickly and become severe without treatment. Antibiotics are usually required to stop it from worsening or spreading.
Superficial thrombophlebitis is also worth considering. In this case, a clot forms in a vein closer to the skin, causing redness, tenderness, and pain. It’s generally less dangerous than DVT but can still be uncomfortable and may require medical care.
Chronic venous insufficiency can lead to swelling and redness over time. This happens when vein valves fail to circulate blood properly, causing pooling, skin changes, or even ulcers.
Other potential causes include gout, arthritis, injury, or lymphedema, which can also produce pain and swelling but vary in severity and treatment.
It’s crucial to seek urgent care if swelling appears suddenly, is painful, or comes with warmth, fever, or chills. Symptoms like chest pain or shortness of breath are even more serious and may indicate a pulmonary embolism.
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