Need a troubleshooter

[pat]

Hi - it's been awhile since I've visited here. I have a question I hope someone can answer.

A week ago, I developed a scarlet splotch the size of an egg on the inside of my lymphedema foot. I also had intense pain on the bottoms of both feet, my knees and my thumbs. The pain and splotch went away after two days but a high fever (103+), chills, aches and pains followed. After two days of that, I felt better and have felt well ever since.

My LE ankle is now just a little worse than it was before this incident - a little stiffer and a little more pooling - not much - I don't think anyone would notice but I do.

My question: Does anyone have any idea what might have been going on with me? I finally went to the doctor, but she couldn't give me any answers. I'm not even sure the two incidents (pain and high fever) were related.

I would appreciate any suggestions you might have. Thanks!

[Partner]

I read your original posting about the health problems you've been having.

I didn't post an answer to your original message because I'm not a doctor and I have no idea how to help you with this condition.

I do hope that your doctor finds a good answer for you soon.

Best wishes,

Partner

[pat]

Hey Partner! Thanks for responding. I was hoping one of the lymphedema experts who often post on this site would answer my question. The doctors I see aren't very knowledgeable about LE; they have no idea what happened to me. So, I'll just have to wait to see if it happens again. Next time, I'm going in right away so they can see the red splotch. Take good care of yourself! Pat

[Chuck]

If you have a sudden swelling, redness, or fever you should contact your doctor. These are all signs of a possible infection or allergic reaction and should be taken seriously.

Color changes and swelling are hard to evaluate based on verbal descriptions. If you have a camera (or better still a digital camera) it may be helpful to have someone take pictures of the area.

Keep track of the time when each picture is taken; the rate of change can be a diagnostic indicator. You may need to use Macro Mode for close-ups.

Even if you are not able to take pictures, keep notes on the size (measure with a ruler) and characteristics of the color change and swelling. Track the time of each observation.

[ Note: I've combined these threads. ]

Best wishes,
Chuck

[pat]

Thanks so much for responding.

I actually think I had cellulitus, but I'm not sure if it's possible for my body to fight it off. I also have no idea what might have set it off.

I will be diligent in the future and not ignore splotches. We don't have a digital camera, but I do have a good old-fashioned one with a good micro lens. Good idea! Thanks!