The shedding and replenishing of the outer layer of skin is a normal, everyday process. However, when your skin becomes too thin, it can lead to venous ulceration and you should consult with a doctor or medical expert.
What are venous stasis ulcers?
Venous stasis ulcers are the most prevalent category of ulcer. They typically show up in the lower legs, especially near the ankles. Just like varicose veins, venous stasis ulcers happen due to valve weakening or deficiencies that lead to the pooling of blood in the legs. This causes swelling and additional pressure on the skin.
What causes venous stasis ulcers?
Many different factors may put you at risk of venous stasis ulcers, including:
- Being older or elderly
- Obesity
- Diabetes or other medical conditions
- Recently had surgery
- Lack of mobility
If you already have vein issues like varicose veins or spider veins, especially in your legs, if your condition remains untreated you are at greater risk of venous ulcers. If you have spider veins or varicose veins, it’s best to seek out treatment right away.
While malfunctions in veins or varicose veins can cause skin ulcers, they are often set off by cuts, scratches, or bruises. These small injuries don’t heal right because of the decreased circulation from venous insufficiency, causing an ulcer. These ulcer-like lesions are frequently painful and not pretty to look at.
Venous stasis ulcers treatment
Many patients take a passive approach to treating a venous ulcer, assuming that it will heal on its own. However, most venous ulcers require specialist treatment. Many individuals begin applying antibiotic ointments to their skin on their own, which is ineffective in speeding up the healing process. Unprescribed antibiotic use might lead to antibiotic resistance, as well as the underlying ulcer continuing or getting worse over time.
Early treatment of venous ulcers is paramount to avoiding infection and (often permanently) damaging the surrounding tissue. In some cases, the ulcer might go away on its own if you take good care of your skin. However, if an ulcer does not respond to home treatment within two weeks, you should seek out professional medical help.
If you are dealing with a venous ulcer, it’s important that you:
- Clean the wound daily with soap and water
- Apply an antibiotic ointment or cream to the wound
- Cover the wound with a sterile bandage
- Elevate the affected leg above heart level when possible
- Exercise regularly
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Wear compression stockings as prescribed
San Diego Vein Specialists
If you are concerned about your vein health, it’s worth seeing a vein specialist for a consultation.
If you suffer from varicose veins or spider veins, we may recommend considering having a procedure done, such as EVLT, to cure the problem. If you are considering such a procedure, contact Kafri Wellness Clinic to schedule an evaluation and get more information.
At Kafri Wellness Clinic, we have over 25+ years of experience working with patients to address vein issues. We also take into consideration a cardiovascular approach to your treatment to give you as much insight into your health as possible.
If you’d like to schedule a consultation to learn how we can help you, please contact us today!
