Teenager with itchy legs when standing

[sananbaz]

DS13 has been complaining of itchy ankles/lower legs when he stands still for more than 5 minutes. He noticed this coincided with his feet looking dark red/purple (this resolves on walking about). He's a known fainter and other issues, but I'm not sure this is related. Been to doctors today and they are going to seek advice, as they've not seen before. Anyone with experience? HCP with knowledge? I'm worried about heart/circulation. Should I be pushing for more, or patiently wait (she said she would only get back to me if she was concerned when researching)?

I got exactly the same thing as a teen. Went away by the time I reached late teenage years.

@Donenow22

I got exactly the same thing as a teen. Went away by the time I reached late teenage years.

Did you ever find out what caused it?

Has POTS been considered? Especially if he's prone to fainting

Dehydration ? I struggle with low BP and poor circulation in my legs and this is one of the solutions for me.

@UpTheLaganInABubble

Has POTS been considered? Especially if he's prone to fainting

I've asked about this before (in A+E) and they said they didn't think so. I also asked the GP today, but she didn't seem interested and dismissed it. I wasn't sure these matched the symptoms, so didn't push it. I've asked about it previously because he has Elhers Danlos, and the two are sometimes seen together. Thanks for suggesting it, I will dig a little deeper.

@Binterested

Dehydration ? I struggle with low BP and poor circulation in my legs and this is one of the solutions for me.

Yes, he definitely needs reminding to drink more as he 'forgets'. I'll keep on at him and see if that improves things. Thanks.

My ds who is 14 also says his legs go purple. I'd love to know what causes this.

I used to get this, still do a bit and both my kids do a bit especially when practicing instruments. I always just put it down to bad circulation. Moving about helps (so don’t stand stock still, wiggle toes etc)

I still get this now. I have mild POTS and several indicators of EDS. I was dismissed too.

Walking is ok but standing still is a nightmare! In work I had to have a chair when others stood. I shift between feet a lot.

Agree re the hydration and make sure he’s not eating too little salt.

@SingToTheSky

I still get this now. I have mild POTS and several indicators of EDS. I was dismissed too.

Walking is ok but standing still is a nightmare! In work I had to have a chair when others stood. I shift between feet a lot.

Agree re the hydration and make sure he’s not eating too little salt.

That's really helpful, I didn't realise there were differing levels of POTS (he doesn't have all the symptoms on the list). I think I'll push for a Paediatricians appointment (he's still under them anyway) and see what they say. I've been on the POTS website and there is a specialist (or at least a doctor with a special interest) based at our local hospital, which is very helpful if he does have it! Everyone's been really helpful, thank you.

If he has EDS, then it sounds like POTS is the most likely cause... glad to see you have a specialist nearby if you need one