What is wrong with my ankle and should I go to GP?

[Shutupanddrive]

My left ankle is hot and swollen and a bit sore. I have no idea why as I don't remember twisting it or anything. I broke it badly 3 years ago and had a second op to remove metalwork about a year and a half ago. Haven't had any problems since.
It has been like this since Monday and doesn't seem to be getting any better or worse. It's quite big though, I can't see my ankle bones! I'm going out this weekend for a friends birthday and don't know what shoes I will be able to wear (not heels). Any ideas? Should I go to Gp or try and ignore it and hope it gets better? It's just strange as I can't remember doing anything to it. My mum suggested something might have bitten me and it's a reaction but have no idea at all.

If it's hot and swollen and not settling then go the GP.

I have metal work still in my ankle and it has swollen up in a similar way once. I did go to my gp although i was probably going for something else as well. The swelling had gone down by then though. Sometimes mine reacts to changes in weather or too much exercise. I would get some flat sparkly sandals for your night out!

Out of interest, why did you get your metal work removed and has it improved your ankle?

Thanks for replies. fruitpastille two of the screws on one side of my ankle were sticking out, could actually feel and see them through the skin! It was quite uncomfortable with certain footwear and especially boots (I ride horses) so I had them taken out. I had the whole lot taken out which was a plate and 6 screws on one side plus two screws from the other side. I had to wait quite a while as I was pregnant when I broke it originally! The difference without them is amazing, it so much better. It feels much easier to move and not as stiff. And I'm not as afraid to fall again or knock it as I know they are not there now!
I had been doing the 30day shred DVD but it hurt my knees so haven't done it for more than a week now. Ankle seemed fine but maybe it's the after effects of that. I'll go to gp Monday if no better I think. Thankyou

I also have a plate held with pins down the outside leg and pin in ankle on opposite side and did it when i was pregnant! I am worried about short term lack of mobility if i have op to remove. Mine have been in for 5 years now and don't cause too much bother but the ankle has never got completely back to normal. Oh well i will keep thinking! Hope you are back to shredding soon.

I can think of three things, first off, something to do with the prior surgery - possibly something was left behind, seems unlikely after all this time but it could be infected or reacting somehow.
Second thing, an insect bite that has caused a bit ofcellulitis - draw a biro line round the swelling/redness and if it grows fairly quickly, go straight to A&E as you'll want antibiotics.
Last thing is DVT. Don't rule it out - particularly with prior surgery it is a risk I think. Though I am not qualified!

The last would be an emergency so don't wait too long x

Thankyou it is no worse (or better) so I will keep an eye on it and go on Monday if it's still the same. It isn't actually red at all, just swollen and warm. I have a cankle! Just on one leg