What are venous ulcers?
Venous ulcers, also called stasis ulcers, are open wounds that develop on your legs, typically just above your ankle. You may develop a venous ulcer when the veins in your legs don’t pump blood back up to your heart as they should.
Your veins contain valves that actively pump deoxygenated blood back to your heart. However, for the veins in your legs, these valves work against gravity to return blood to your heart. If these valves become damaged or worn down over time, it can cause blood to flow backward and collect in your veins.
What conditions are associated with venous ulcers?
In addition to venous ulcers, insufficient blood flow in the veins can cause several other problems, including:
- Spider veins
- Varicose veins
- Venous insufficiency
These issues can lead to leg cramps, pain, and swelling, in addition to severe complications such as blood clots or stroke.
How do I know if I have a venous ulcer?
Venous ulcers are shallow, red sores with irregularly shaped borders. The skin around the ulcers may be shiny, tight, or even warm to the touch. In some instances, your skin may also appear yellow or otherwise discolored.
Common symptoms of venous ulcers include:
- Itching and tingling
- Leg cramping
- Leg pain
- Leg swelling
- Leg weakness
The best way to determine if the sores on your legs are venous ulcers is to schedule an appointment at Wound Care Associates.
How do you diagnose and treat venous ulcers?
Dr. Rodriguez begins by performing a physical exam and reviewing your medical history.
Once he determines the underlying cause of your venous ulcers, he can develop a treatment plan tailored to your unique needs. Treatment for venous ulcers may begin with lifestyle changes to promote healthier circulation, such as:
- Eating well and exercising
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Quitting smoking
He may also recommend conservative measures like keeping the ulcers and the surrounding areas clean or wearing compression socks to prevent blood from pooling in your legs. If conservative measures fail, he may recommend:
- Removing dead or decaying tissue
- Regenerative medicine, including stem cell therapy
- Surgical amputation, in extreme cases
Venous ulcers shouldn’t be ignored given that they can contribute to serious complications. Call Wound Care Associates or book an appointment online today.
