Author Archives: Dr. Li

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About Dr. Li

I am a professional surgeon based in Beijing, China.

Main Symptoms of Lower-Limb Lymphedema

Lower-limb lymphedema happens when the lymph system can’t drain fluid from the leg, so the tissue slowly fills up like a wet sponge. It can start after surgery, infection, radiation, or for no clear reason. Painless swelling is the hallmark. One ankle or calf looks puffy by day and goes down overnight at first, but over time the swelling stays. Heavy, tight leg follows. Your limb feels like it’s wrapped in wet denim, especially after standing or long flights. Sock ring stays deep. Elastic leaves a groove that takes minutes to fade, even with loose socks. Skin changes appear. The... Learn more

Main Symptoms of Arteriosclerosis Obliterans

Arteriosclerosis obliterans (ASO) is a slow build-up of plaque inside the arteries that feed your legs. Think of it as a traffic jam that lets less and less blood through, so leg muscles scream for oxygen whenever you walk. Cramping calf pain is the classic red flag. It hits after a block or two of walking and forces you to stop until the ache fades. Numb or heavy legs follow. Your thighs or calves feel like they’re filled with wet sand, especially after exercise. Cold feet show up early. One foot feels cooler than the other, and socks never seem... Learn more

Main Symptoms of Varicose Veins

Varicose veins are stretched, ropey veins that let blood flow backward and pool in the legs. They start as a cosmetic bother but can turn into daily pain. Visible, bulging cords are the headline. Blue or purple veins snake across the calf or inner thigh, popping out when you stand. Heavy, achy legs follow. Your legs feel tired and wooden, especially after long standing or late in the day. Swelling shows up low. Ankles and feet puff, so socks leave a tight groove that takes minutes to fade. Itching or burning crops up over the veins. Scratching doesn’t help much... Learn more

Main Symptoms of Lower-Limb Venous Thrombosis

A blood clot in a leg vein can sit like a plug or break off and travel. Early signs are easy to brush off as a muscle pull, so knowing the pattern matters. Calf pain is the first red flag. It feels like a deep cramp or tight muscle that doesn’t ease with stretching or massage. Swelling shows up next. The ankle or whole lower leg puffs, often only on one side, so socks leave a tight groove. Warmth and redness appear. The skin over the vein feels hot and looks pink or purplish, like a localized sunburn. Heaviness and... Learn more

Main Symptoms of Arteritis

Arteritis means one or more arteries are inflamed. Because arteries feed every organ, symptoms can pop up anywhere, but most people notice pain, color changes, and fatigue first. Localized pain is the early clue. It feels like a deep, throbbing bruise along the course of an artery, often in the temples, neck, or limbs. Color changes show up next. The skin turns red, purple, or blotchy over the inflamed vessel, especially after cold or exercise. Low-grade fever and night sweats are common. You feel cold one minute, hot the next, and wake up soaked. Fatigue is constant. Legs feel heavy,... Learn more