Lower leg is black and there a burning sensation in the leg?

If your lower leg is black and you are experiencing a burning sensation, it is important to seek medical attention immediately as it could be a sign of a serious medical condition. Here are some possible causes and what you should do:

1. Deep vein thrombosis (DVT): This occurs when a blood clot forms in a deep vein, usually in the leg. Symptoms include swelling, pain, warmth, and discoloration of the skin. If left untreated, DVT can lead to serious complications, including pulmonary embolism (PE).

2. Cellulitis: This is a bacterial infection of the skin and underlying soft tissues. Symptoms include redness, swelling, pain, and warmth. Cellulitis can spread quickly and can lead to serious complications if not treated promptly.

3. Necrotizing fasciitis: This is a rare but serious bacterial infection that spreads quickly and destroys the tissue it affects. Symptoms include severe pain, swelling, and discoloration of the skin. Necrotizing fasciitis is a medical emergency and requires immediate treatment.

4. Other medical conditions: In some cases, black discoloration and burning sensation in the leg can be caused by other medical conditions, such as peripheral artery disease, vasculitis, or certain types of cancer.

What to do:

- Call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

- Elevate the affected leg and try to keep it as still as possible.

- Apply a cold compress to the affected area to help reduce swelling and pain.

- Avoid taking any pain relievers or blood thinners until you have been evaluated by a doctor.

- Follow your doctor's instructions for treatment and follow-up care.

It is important to seek prompt medical attention to determine the exact cause of the black discoloration and burning sensation in your leg and receive appropriate treatment.