About 5 years ago I was hospitalized for several weeks after my perforated appendix went undiagnosed for 2 weeks. I had emergency surgery to clear the resulting abscess and was hospitalized to recover and for treatment of my sepsis.
Anyway, since a few months after my hospitalization, whenever I stand for several minutes without moving much–particularly during a shower, both of my legs, ankles, and feet have alternating spots of dark purple and bright red, and I get a severe itch. It’s not painful, and there are no sensations of hot, cold, or numbness, and it goes away after a few minutes when I move around, or sit or lay down. And there aren’t any visible marks on my legs, apparent veins, ulcers, discolorations, or the like when it’s not ongoing.
Even though it’s been going on for 5 years, it is still a bit concerning, and can be very annoying at times where I have to stand (presentations, waiting in line, etc). I’ve talked to my doctor about it, who didn’t say much but shrug. Any idea what it could be, and if so if anything can/should be done?
-jsl
Answered by: Maria/MDHealth Forum.com Team
The symptoms that you have been experiencing may be linked to conditions that are aggravated by poor blood circulation. An example of which is stasis dermatitis. It is a form of skin irritation caused by a build-up of fluids under the skin. In this type of dermatitis, prolonged standing, hot weather and even hot showers may cause itchiness and changes in skin color due to the leakage of red blood cells from the blood vessels. Venous insufficiency, heart failure and other conditions that cause swelling are said to contribute to stasis dermatitis.
For younger patients the possible causes of stasis dermatitis are history of deep vein blood clots, surgery, trauma and recurrent infections. The early signs of this condition include itching, redness and dryness of the skin. In severe cases, skin breaks down and there may be crusted areas and ulceration. This website is only for general information. Though the symptoms that you have been experiencing may be the same as the early signs of stasis dermatitis, only a medical practitioner can diagnose your condition. If your current doctor just gives you a ’shrug’, perhaps you can get the opinion of other doctors in your area. Generally, the doctor will do examinations to identify the causes of the skin changes. If stasis dermatitis is considered, vein studies may be performed. The use of compression stockings may also be recommended. Practicing proper skin care such as use of mild skin products may help prevent dryness and skin breakdown. Other measures such as raising the leg above the level of the heart would help promote circulation. Avoiding prolonged standing is also advisable.
Discuss this topic on the Health Forum
More answers in Internal Medicine, Skin
