STRESS IS NOT EVEN THE TOPIC , PROMISE..

[TTtime]

Hi guys new here amd I am indeed battling stress , however stress has been a huge part already in my.life when my husband died in a car accident leaving me with 4 kids to raise . So I can handle stress , the problem im.having is I know something is wrong besides the obvious of having lupus and a few other AI diseases but now.im.having discoloration below my calves and swelling . Now with Lupus we know rashes come and go but this is not a rash. It is a redness but it's only below the calves and it stays swollen . So anyone have this issue along with Lupus or maybe in.general circulation but I thought I would check her first . ADVICE PLZ

[StriatedCaracara]

I am so very sorry to hear what has happened.

Not sure whether this has already been checked but swelling of ankles could be a sign of the start of a kidney issue. This is best checked for asap before it progresses as treatment is easier, if caught early

Urine and blood test should be ordered by your GP if they suspect this - to prompt any follow up.

If you have a rheumy mention this symptom to them, or a rheumatology nurse if there is one.

I keep 10 parameter urine test sticks at home so I can test regularly for any protein.

In the States, guidance was recently updated. I guess much of this holds true in the UK.

healthunlocked.com/lupusuk/...

It could be something else, but thought this was important to put here.

[Cath24]

First, let me say that you sound like an incredibly strong person, having endured such a major loss and still raising four kids while living with lupus and other autoimmune conditions. I am so sorry for your loss, and can only hope you find a little reassurance on these forums, although please do not delay contacting your doctor to get a definite diagnosis.

I will start by saying that I am not a doctor, but I have studied and have an idea of what might be happening.

Venous insufficiency sounds like it might be a possibility. Usually happens below the knees and can cause swelling, and is not uncommon in people with AI conditions. It can also cause discolouration, and is also seen in people with systemic or even cutaneous vasculitis - it can be red, or even appear as a large bruise, or even light brown, also depending on your skin colour.

Is your skin mottled at all, and do you have livedo reticularis, often seen in patients with lupus?

Less common would be linked to lupus nephritis, when it can affect your kidneys and cause swelling - did you test positive for anti-smith? Your doctor can order a urine test to check your kidney function as a quick and immediate test, as well as follow up blood tests, including CRP and ESR and complement levels to check for active disease. I would also ask if testing for ANCA is a possibility, to rule out vasculitis. A skin biopsy might be needed to, but not necessarily.

On a final note, if it's tender and painful, feels hot to touch, and just on one side, then cellulitis (or a different infection) is a possibility that should not be ignored - it should be treated quickly.

Whatever you think you might have or not have, please call your doctor to arrange an urgent appointment as soon as you have finished reading my message, if you haven't already. If they fob you off then call NHS 24 if you are in the UK, or its equivalent abroad - an emergency number that isn't a direct call for an ambulance.

Wishing you a speedy recovery and lots of strength, and many happier moments with your children. Keep us updated if you can x

[Jerg]

I had the same problem however I got help via a therapist. This was really helpful

Hope you get the help you need