MILK LEG Meaning and
Definition
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Milk leg, also known as puerperal superficial thrombophlebitis or puerperal phlebitis, is a medical condition characterized by inflammation and blood clot formation in the veins of the leg following childbirth. More specifically, milk leg refers to thrombophlebitis occurring in the superficial veins of the lower extremities during the postpartum period.
The term "milk leg" originated from the belief that the condition was caused by an accumulation of milk in the leg, which is now known to be inaccurate. The actual cause of milk leg is thought to be related to physical changes that occur during pregnancy and childbirth, such as hormonal fluctuations, increased blood volume, and altered blood flow.
Symptoms of milk leg typically include pain, warmth, redness, and swelling in the affected leg. The condition is often accompanied by fever and general malaise. If left untreated, milk leg can lead to the formation of blood clots that can potentially cause serious complications, such as pulmonary embolism.
Treatment for milk leg usually involves the use of blood thinners to prevent further clot formation, pain management with analgesics, and the application of warm compresses or support stockings to alleviate discomfort and reduce swelling. In severe cases, hospitalization and intravenous antibiotics may be necessary.
Prompt diagnosis and treatment are essential for managing milk leg effectively and minimizing complications. Healthcare professionals, particularly obstetricians and midwives, are typically involved in the care and management of milk leg in postpartum women.
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A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for MILK LEG
- nilk leg
- kilk leg
- jilk leg
- mulk leg
- mjlk leg
- mklk leg
- molk leg
- m9lk leg
- m8lk leg
- mikk leg
- mipk leg
- miok leg
- milj leg
- milm leg
- mill leg
- milo leg
- mili leg
- milk keg
- milk peg
Etymology of MILK LEG
The term "milk leg" is derived from the combination of two separate concepts: "milk" and "leg".
1. Milk: In this context, "milk" refers to lactation, specifically the release of milk from the mammary glands in mammals, including humans. This term is used metaphorically to describe the condition's occurrence after childbirth.
2. Leg: "Leg" simply refers to the lower limb of the body, specifically in this case, one of the two legs.
The term "milk leg" is primarily associated with a condition called "phlegmasia alba dolens" or "femoral vein thrombophlebitis". It is a rare but potentially serious condition characterized by the formation of blood clots in the deep veins of the leg, typically occurring after childbirth or surgery.
Similar spelling words for MILK LEG
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