Unexplained Discomfort in Legs: Causes and When to Seek Help

Discomfort in both legs of unknown origin?

Dr.
Huang, regarding the topic, my legs move freely and I have no pain or swelling, but at night when I sleep, I often feel uncomfortable in a way that's hard to describe.
It feels somewhat sore, and I have a strong urge to exert force on my legs to feel more comfortable (similar to how one would grip tightly with their hands).
During my pregnancy last year, the frequency of these episodes increased.
I would ask my husband to massage my legs, which helped a bit, or doing some exercise would also alleviate the discomfort, usually resolving by the next day.
However, since last night, this symptom has persisted.
If I need to see a doctor, which specialty should I consult? Also, what could be causing this?
Additionally, I have two more questions, if possible, please answer them together:
1.
I have many tiny indentations on my fingers (as if poked with a pen), which started appearing after I entered university, and I hardly noticed them during my pregnancy.
Could this be due to malnutrition? (I am 166 cm tall and weigh 50 kg, with regular meals and no dieting.)
2.
When I pull apart a binder very forcefully, my fingers often become red and swollen, taking about 4 to 5 days to recover.
What could be the cause of this?

Emily, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2003/06/10

Dr. Huang Mingde reply Family Medicine

1.
The discomfort in both legs without a clear cause may be attributed to calcium deficiency leading to lower limb cramps, especially since she is of childbearing age.
Additionally, significant temperature differences between body temperature and room temperature (particularly during the night or early morning) can also trigger muscle cramps.
This condition may have other underlying causes, and it is advisable to consult a neurologist or a family medicine specialist.
2.
The presence of concave nails is often related to metabolic abnormalities in vitamin intake; however, there are many causes linked to poor nail bed conditions or personal habits (such as nail biting).
It is recommended to follow up with a dermatologist for further evaluation.
3.
The issue of red and swollen fingers is difficult to address without a personal examination, so it is advisable to visit a healthcare provider for assessment.

Reply Date: 2003/06/10

More Info

Dear Patient,
Thank you for reaching out with your concerns regarding the discomfort in your legs and other symptoms you are experiencing. It’s important to address these issues comprehensively, as they can significantly affect your quality of life.

Unexplained Discomfort in Legs
The discomfort you describe in your legs, particularly at night, could be attributed to several factors. Commonly, people experience sensations such as restlessness or a need to move their legs, which can be associated with a condition known as Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS). This condition often manifests as an uncomfortable sensation in the legs, typically relieved by movement. The fact that you noticed an increase in symptoms during pregnancy may also suggest that hormonal changes could be playing a role. Pregnancy can lead to fluid retention, changes in circulation, and increased pressure on nerves, all of which could contribute to leg discomfort.

If your symptoms persist or worsen, it would be advisable to consult a healthcare professional. You may want to start with a visit to a neurologist or a primary care physician who can evaluate your symptoms and possibly refer you to a specialist if necessary. They may conduct a physical examination, review your medical history, and possibly recommend tests to rule out other conditions such as peripheral neuropathy or circulatory issues.

Additional Concerns
1. Small Dents in Fingers: The small dents or pits you observe on your fingers could be related to several conditions. One possibility is a skin condition called pitting edema, which can occur due to various reasons, including nutritional deficiencies or dermatological issues. However, since you mentioned that these were less frequent during pregnancy, it might be worth considering if hormonal changes or dietary adjustments during that time had a positive effect. It’s essential to discuss this with a dermatologist who can provide a thorough examination and appropriate tests if needed.

2. Redness and Swelling After Strain: The redness and swelling you experience after exerting your fingers, especially when using them forcefully, could indicate a form of tendonitis or overuse syndrome. This occurs when the tendons in your fingers become inflamed due to repetitive motion or excessive strain. It’s crucial to listen to your body and avoid activities that exacerbate this condition. A visit to an orthopedic specialist or a hand therapist may be beneficial. They can provide guidance on proper ergonomics, exercises to strengthen your hands, and strategies to manage inflammation.

Conclusion
In summary, your symptoms warrant further investigation, and I recommend consulting with a primary care physician or a neurologist for your leg discomfort. For the other concerns regarding your fingers, a dermatologist and an orthopedic specialist would be appropriate. It’s essential to communicate all your symptoms clearly during your appointments, as this will help in diagnosing and managing your conditions effectively.

Remember, you are not alone in this, and seeking help is a crucial step towards finding relief and understanding your health better. Please take care of yourself, and I hope you find the answers and support you need.

Best wishes for your health,
Doctor Q&A Teams

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