Venous ulcers are a common type of lower leg wound that can cause significant discomfort and require medical attention. These ulcers result from underlying issues with the veins, and understanding their causes is the first step toward effective management and treatment. Here is more information on what venous ulcers are, their symptoms, causes, prevention strategies, and the available treatment options:
What Are Venous Ulcers?
Venous ulcers are open skin sores that often occur on the lower leg, and they are the most frequent type of leg ulcer. They develop due to a breakdown of skin tissue caused by sustained high pressure in the veins of the legs. This pressure, known as venous hypertension, damages the capillaries, making the skin fragile and prone to breaking down. Identifying the signs of a venous ulcer early allows for prompt treatment and improved outcomes.
What Are the Symptoms?
Before a venous ulcer forms, there are often warning signs related to venous insufficiency that you may notice. Symptoms include swelling in the ankles, a sensation of heaviness in the legs, and discoloration of the skin around the ankle area. The skin may also become dry, itchy, and hardened.
When an ulcer develops, it typically appears as a shallow sore with irregular borders, sometimes covered by yellow or grayish tissue. The area surrounding the ulcer is often discolored and swollen, and you may experience aching or pain in the leg. If the ulcer becomes infected, it may exhibit increased redness, a foul odor, and pus draining from the wound.
What Causes Them?
The primary cause of venous ulcers is chronic venous insufficiency, which occurs when the valves in the leg veins do not work correctly. These one-way valves are meant to keep blood flowing toward the heart, but they can become weak or damaged. When this happens, blood can flow backward and pool in the lower legs, a condition known as venous reflux. This pooling of blood increases the pressure within the veins, leading to skin damage over time and potentially an ulcer.
How Can You Prevent Them?
Preventing venous ulcers involves managing the risk factors associated with chronic venous insufficiency. Maintaining a healthy weight and engaging in regular physical activity, such as walking, helps improve circulation in the legs. You can also wear compression stockings, which support the veins and help reduce swelling.
Elevating the legs above heart level for short periods throughout the day also helps decrease pressure in the leg veins, making it a simple preventive measure. Avoiding prolonged periods of sitting or standing helps prevent blood from pooling in the lower extremities. If you have varicose veins or other venous issues, seeking early treatment can prevent the condition from progressing.
What Are the Treatment Options?
Treatment focuses on healing the wound and addressing the underlying venous insufficiency, and a combination of approaches may be used. The initial step is proper wound care, which involves keeping the ulcer clean to prevent infection and promote healing. For the underlying venous disease, several minimally invasive procedures are available to close off or remove the damaged veins.
- Endovenous Laser Therapy (EVLT)
- Ultrasound-Guided Sclerotherapy
- Varithena® Foam Sclerotherapy
Learn More About Prevention Today
Venous ulcers are a serious medical condition resulting from chronic venous insufficiency, but they can be managed with proper care and treatment. If you are experiencing symptoms of venous ulcers, consult a specialist for proper diagnosis and treatment. Taking action can lead to improved health and a better quality of life.