Venous Skin Ulcers Are Wounds

If you notice a dark red patch of itchy skin on your leg and your doctor has ruled out a skin condition, you may have a venous skin ulcer. These wounds are found above the ankle, but below the calf and can be painful. They are caused by venous insufficiency in which your veins are not working efficiently. The loss of elasticity in the vein walls and collapse of the valves results in your blood pooling in those damaged veins. Skin ulcers are formed when blood leaks into the surrounding tissue.

Venous skin ulcers are caused by a variety of factors such as obesity, blood clots, smoking and not exercising. You can avoid a skin ulcer by changing your lifestyle habits.

If you notice one forming, see your doctor about starting treatment to ward off a full blown venous skin ulcer. There are a few things that you can do to help prevent the ulcer.

• Wear compression stockings to help support your veins and to reduce blood pooling in your legs
• Elevate your legs whenever possible. Keep them above the level of your heart so that gravity can assist in pumping blood toward the heart.
• Get your exercise! Any type of exercise will help your blood circulate throughout your body.
• Remain in contact with your physician. If you feel like the ulcer is becoming worse, call your doctor for an evaluation.

Unfortunately, even taking preventative measures may not eliminate a skin ulcer. An infection can occur. If this happens, you will most likely be prescribed a medication. Other methods of treatment such as skin grafting and vein surgery may be needed for severe cases.

If you feel that you have venous skin ulcers that may be forming, reach out to a doctor such as Dr. Joseph Magnant at Vein Specialists is an expert in vein conditions and treatments. Call today or fill out a form online at WeKnowVeins.com

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