Symptoms: Leg Pain and Head Discomfort Related to Vascular Issues - Cardiology

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Discomfort in the head and feet?


Hello, doctor.
Initially, I noticed purple veins appearing on my left foot.
Later, certain areas of the skin on my foot became painful when pressed, and there was slight swelling on the outer side of my thigh, although it wasn't very noticeable.
I experience sharp pain while walking, and when I take a hot shower, my left foot feels tight and more swollen.
Subsequently, I felt some tightness in my left face, and there is a sensation of congestion around my left eye.
Recently, I've been feeling tightness on the top of my head.
Out of concern, I researched online and came across a case of venous embolism that led to a stroke.
I'm wondering if the symptoms in my foot could be due to a venous embolism that traveled to my face and then to my brain, causing these phenomena.
Thank you, doctor.

tina, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2010/12/16

Dr. Ding Zhizhong reply Cardiology


Hi Tina: Don't scare yourself! Cases of venous embolism causing a stroke are very rare because it requires a right-to-left shunt to occur within the heart (more commonly seen in end-stage congenital heart disease with pulmonary hypertension).
As for the symptoms in your left lower limb, we cannot rule out the possibility of chronic embolism (unlike acute embolism).
You can undergo an ultrasound examination, which should at least provide you with some peace of mind, right?

Reply Date: 2010/12/16

More Info


Hello! Thank you for reaching out with your concerns regarding your symptoms. Based on your description, it seems you are experiencing a combination of leg pain, discomfort in the head, and other related symptoms that may be causing you significant worry. Let’s break down your symptoms and explore the potential connections to vascular issues.

Firstly, the appearance of purple veins in your left leg, along with localized pain and swelling, could indicate a condition known as venous insufficiency or possibly superficial thrombophlebitis. These conditions occur when the veins in the legs do not efficiently return blood to the heart, leading to pooling of blood and the formation of small blood clots. The pain you feel when pressing on certain areas of your skin, as well as the tightness and swelling when exposed to heat, further supports this possibility.
The sensation of tightness in your left face and the feeling of congestion around your left eye could be related to vascular changes or even nerve involvement. The vascular system is interconnected, and issues in one area can sometimes manifest symptoms in another. For instance, if there is a problem with venous drainage in your leg, it could potentially affect blood flow and pressure in the surrounding areas, including your face and head.

Your concern about the possibility of a venous thromboembolism (VTE) is valid, especially considering the symptoms you described. A VTE occurs when a blood clot forms in a vein (deep vein thrombosis, or DVT) and can potentially travel to the lungs (pulmonary embolism) or even to the brain, leading to a stroke. However, it is important to note that not all leg pain or swelling is indicative of a serious condition like a blood clot.
The tightness in your head and the discomfort you feel on the top of your head could be related to tension-type headaches or migraines, which can be exacerbated by stress, anxiety, or even physical discomfort in other areas of the body. The vascular system plays a significant role in headaches, as changes in blood flow can trigger pain signals.

Given the complexity of your symptoms, it is crucial to seek medical attention. A thorough evaluation by a healthcare professional, particularly a vascular specialist or a neurologist, would be beneficial. They may recommend diagnostic tests such as an ultrasound of your leg to check for clots, blood tests to assess your clotting factors, and possibly imaging studies like a CT scan or MRI to evaluate your brain and vascular structures.

In the meantime, it is advisable to monitor your symptoms closely. If you experience sudden changes, such as increased pain, swelling, or any neurological symptoms (like weakness, numbness, or changes in vision), seek immediate medical attention.
In summary, while your symptoms could be related to vascular issues, it is essential to have a professional assessment to rule out serious conditions like blood clots or other vascular complications. Early diagnosis and treatment can significantly improve outcomes and alleviate your concerns. Please take care of yourself, and do not hesitate to reach out to a healthcare provider for further evaluation.

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