I saw 2 different doctors this week ( my gyno and my primary care) and both couldnt see anything wrong with my leg. My husband thought it looked swollen the other day when he gave me a massgae but the doctors couldnt see anything. Wouldn't the doctors have seen pitted edema if I had it? It hurts to walk and the pain starts from my lower back and my inner thigh. I had blood work( metabolic profile) and CBC and the doctor said it all looked great. Could I have the pitted edema and both doctors overlooked it?
2007-06-24 13:35:41 · 6 answers · asked by flawless1212 3 in Health ➔ Women's Health
What makes you think it's pitting edema?
Do you have ill health?
Your Sciatic nerve runs from the middle of your cheek down the back of your leg.
Sciatica first aid
The term sciatica (sometimes misspelled "ciatica" or "siatica") is used to describe pain that radiates down the course of the sciatic nerve, which starts from each side of the lower back, extends down the back of the thigh, and into the foot.
This type of pain is caused by compression of nerve roots in the lower part of the spine, which merge together to form the sciatic nerve in the pelvis. Pain may result from a variety of conditions, including disc problems. The good news, however, is that most cases of sciatica are not serious and will get better within a few days or weeks.
When the sciatica pain flares up, it is helpful to know several options that can be used to help alleviate the pain and discomfort and help you to quickly return to your normal activity.
Cold and heat treatment for sciatica
Ice and heat sources are easily available, inexpensive, and usually quite effective in treating sciatica.
A cold pack or ice application can reduce inflammation and numb sore tissue, alleviating some of the pain in the sciatic nerve. This should be used initially when pain is sharp and intense, usually for 2 to 7 days, depending on the severity of the pain.
Heat dilates blood vessels, increasing the flow of oxygen and nutrients to the area, which assists in healing. Applying heat also stimulates sensory receptors in the skin, so the brain focuses less on the pain of sciatica. This is best used after the acute, sharp pain has subsided, typically 3 to 7 days after the start of the condition.
2007-06-25 17:12:58 · answer #1 · answered by Fraulein 7 · 2⤊ 0⤋
It's actually "pitting edema" and it's unlikely that a medical professional would have missed it. You can tell if you have pitting edema by pressing your fingers into your leg - usually right above the ankle. If the impression of your fingers stays for more than a few seconds then you have pitting edema. If by some chance you have the edema - then check higher up on your leg to see where it ends, if it's at or above your knees then you need to see the doctor again - soon!
The pain sounds a bit like sciatica pain but it's hard to tell from your description.
2007-06-24 13:43:58 · answer #2 · answered by Mirage 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It is pitting edema and is generally found on the leg below the knee. You can check yourself, just feel your shin bone and press in about half way down firmly. If you leave behind a deep pit then you have pitting edema.
With your symptoms I would be more concerned that you have strained your back in some way. Try sleeping on your back with two pillows under your lower legs and see if that helps the pain. Also apply some heat to your lower back. Hope you feel better soon!
2007-06-24 13:42:34 · answer #3 · answered by Kate S 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋
depending on how old you are you may have developed what's called spinal stenosis or a narrowing of the spine which can interfere with nerves and cause the pain you are describing. it could also be a pinched nerve if you have a buldging disk or a strained muscle. there are several things that could be causing your pain. if the pain isn't improving i would go back to your primary care doc.
pitting edema is when the edema or (fluid build-up) is so much that when you press your finger into it for a few seconds and then take your finger off you can see the indent of your finger. if it is edema it could be due to some kidney function, or heart function issues or a medication that you may be taking.
2007-06-25 13:13:14 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
PIH can begin as early as 20 weeks. I would stay on the doctor until he calls you back. It sounds like you've had this before, but it's nothing to mess around with. Edema in the hands and face is a warning sign for PIH (as well as your BP), but edema in the legs is common during pregnancy. Any neuro symptoms like persistent headaches, visual changes, change in consciousness are an emergency for you, so just pay attention. I would stay off your feet, and lie on your left side when you can--this gets the baby the most oxygen. Other than that, wait for the doctor, and do what you've been doing to reduce the risks. Good luck!
2016-03-16 06:05:26 · answer #5 · answered by ? 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Maybe try seeing a bone/joint doctor or a chiropractor. Maybe you just have a pinched nerve. I'd say if it hurts, find a doctor that is willing to help you find a solution. If your doctor just left it at that, saying everything was fine, get a second opinion from another doctor. Hope this helps.
2007-06-24 13:39:44 · answer #6 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
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2017-02-23 02:52:04 · answer #7 · answered by ? 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋