Toe, Foot, And Ankle Problems, Noninjury: Check Your Symptoms

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When to See a Doctor

Do you have toe, foot, or ankle swelling?

See significance of swelling if you need information to help you answer the questions below.

Review health risks that may increase the seriousness of your symptoms.

Call your health professional immediately if you answer "Yes" to the following question.

Yes

Is a swollen foot or ankle pale, white, blue, or cold?

Call your health professional today if you answer "Yes" to any of the following questions.

Yes

Do you have swelling in both of your feet or ankles with shortness of breath?

Yes

Do you have swelling in both of your feet or ankles with changes in urination?

Yes

Do you have a lot of new swelling in your feet or ankles?

You may wait to see if the symptoms improve over the next 24 hours (or specified time period) if you answer "Yes" to any of the following questions.

Yes

Has swelling that is usual for you gotten worse after 24 hours of home treatment?

Yes

Do you have moderate swelling in your feet or ankles that has not gotten better after 24 hours of home treatment?

You need an appointment within the next 1 to 2 weeks if you answer "Yes" to any of the following questions.

Yes

Do you have mild swelling without other symptoms that has not gotten better after 1 week of home treatment?

Yes

Do you have long-term swelling that has been evaluated by your doctor, but the swelling has not gotten better or not followed the expected course?

If you have answered "No" to the above questions, go back to Check Your Symptoms and continue to answer the questions to evaluate your symptoms.

Last updated:	October 27, 2008
Author:	Jan Nissl, RN, BS
Reviewed By:	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine, Gavin W.G. Chalmers, DPM - Podiatry and Podiatric Surgery
Editors:	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Tracy Landauer