swollen ankle

i am a 42 y/o african american male with no past history of medical complications i have no history of diabetes, alcohol, smoking and i have never been hospitalized.  I have however torn my akylles tendon at age 21 on the left. I have been recently exp severe swelling of the left ankle and lower leg even to the point that it begins to be uncomfortable. I have had swelling before and I attributed it to weight gain and after a few visits to the gym the swelling dissappeared. i have cut back and lost a few pounds but the swelling has not dissipated at all this time. I have made an appointment to see a physician but need a little heads up .  By the way my present weight is about 230lbs and im 6'1". i just baffled and this is begining to woory me.  Got any answeres ?

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[Kevin Pho, MD]

If musculoskeletal causes have been ruled out (i.e. ankle sprain, tendonitis etc.), you can evaluate for other causes of edema.  This can include a blood clot, heart, kidney or liver disease.

An ultrasound can be considered looking for a blood clot, and an echocardiogram can be ordered to evaluate the heart.  Blood tests can be done to look at the kidney and the liver.

These options can be discussed with your personal physician.

Followup with your personal physician is essential.

This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.

Kevin, M.D.
kevinmd_

[facetime]

Another possible cause of the swelling could be be lymphedema:

From this site:

http://www.vascularweb.org/_CONTRIBUTION_PAGES/Patient_Information/NorthPoint/Lymphedema.html


Lymphedema occurs when lymphatic fluid builds up in the soft tissues of your body, usually in an arm or leg. The lymphatic system consists of lymph vessels and lymph nodes that run through your body. Lymph vessels collect a fluid that is made up of protein, water, fats, and wastes from the cells of the body. Lymph vessels carry this fluid to your lymph nodes. Lymph nodes filter waste materials and foreign products, and then return the fluid to your blood. If your vessels or nodes become damaged or are missing, the lymph fluid cannot move freely through the system. The fluids can then build up and cause swelling in the affected arms or legs.