What Are Venous Ulcers and Who Is at Risk?

A venous ulcer, also known as a varicose ulcer or a venous stasis ulcer, is a long-term (chronic) sore that develops on the inside of the thigh, right above the ankle, as a result of poor blood circulation in the limb. This vascular ulcer affects roughly 1% of Americans and accounts for more than 80% of lower extremity ulcerations. Venous ulcers take time to heal and can lead to a more serious problem if not treated properly. Therefore, it’s important to learn about them to prevent them from occurring.

What Are the Causes of Venous Ulcers?

A venous leg ulcer can occur after a small injury or damage to the valves inside the leg veins that adversely affect the blood circulation in your leg veins. When this happens, the pressure inside the veins rises. This persistent high pressure might progressively damage and weaken your skin's fragile blood vessels. As a result, a knock or scrape can easily cause your skin to split and produce an ulcer. The ulcer may not heal unless you receive treatment to restore blood circulation in your legs.

Symptoms of Venous Ulcers

Common symptoms of Venous ulcers include:

• Swelling in the lower parts of the legs
• Dark red or purple patches on the skin
• Pus around the wound
• Pain in legs
• Irregular edges on the skin with yellow or red patches

Who Is at More Risk of Getting Diagnosed with Venous Ulcers?

You are more likely to develop venous ulcers if you have already experienced deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or if you suffer from the following issues:

• Osteoarthritis
• Leg injury
• Obesity
• Paralysis

You may also be vulnerable to venous ulcers if you've recently undergone leg surgery, such as a hip or knee replacement. Varicose veins (swollen and bulging veins) can also lead to venous leg ulcers.

How Can You Care for Venous Ulcers?

You can perform your venous ulcer wound care by following these basic instructions:

• Clean your ulcer wound thoroughly, and then apply a bandage.
• Wear compression stockings or bandages every day as instructed by your doctor. They will help prevent blood from pooling, reduce swelling, help with healing, and reduce pain.
• Take venous ulcer treatment medicines as directed by your physician to help with healing.
• Take a walk frequently or exercise every day. This will improve blood flow in your body

Prevention Tips for Venous Ulcers

While you cannot avoid certain risks for venous ulcers, you can take preventive measures to reduce your chances of having the condition.

• Keep your blood pressure levels in control
• Manage your weight, and lose weight if advised by your physician
• Exercise and walk regularly
• Wear compression stockings
• Quit smoking
• Manage your diabetes and cholesterol levels

When Should You Call the Doctor to Get the Venous Ulcer Treated?

You should visit your doctor when you see redness and swellings around your legs. Venous ulcer treatment should be started immediately when pus gets painful and yellowish. Delays in treatment can get very painful and dangerous for you.

Get the Best Venous Ulcer Treatment at North Atlanta Vascular and Vein Center

North Atlanta Vascular and Vein Center has provided the Atlanta community with expert and exceptional vascular care for more than a decade. At any of our four convenient locations, you can access our wide array of treatment services for various vascular and venous disorders in a relaxed and friendly environment. Schedule an appointment with us to get the best diagnosis and care for all your vascular conditions today!