Venous Skin Ulcer

Venous Skin ulcers are stubborn sores that develop on the leg, usually around the ankle. They take weeks to years to heal because of poor blood circulation. While not life-threatening, untreated ulcers can worsen and lead to complications. The good news is that there are steps to prevent and manage them.

What causes them?

These ulcers form when blood flow struggles to return from the leg to the heart. This often happens when valves in the veins malfunction, causing blood to pool in the legs. The increased pressure weakens the skin, making it hard for even minor cuts or scrapes to heal.

Who’s at risk?

About 1% of Americans have venous ulcers, affecting older adults, especially women, more frequently. Other risk factors include:

• Past leg injuries
• Varicose veins
• Smoking
• Obesity
• Blood clot history
• Phlebitis (vein inflammation)

Symptoms to Watch For:

Venous ulcers often itch or burn, and the surrounding area may be swollen. Here are other signs:

• Skin rash or dryness
• Brownish discoloration
• Foul-smelling discharge
• Redness, swelling, and increased pain (signs of infection)
• Fever
• Pus

Getting a Diagnosis

If you have a slow-healing wound, see your doctor. A physical exam typically suffices for diagnosis. They might ask about chronic conditions like diabetes. In some cases, X-rays or CT scans might be needed for a closer look. Untreated ulcers can lead to serious skin or bone infections and, rarely, even skin cancer.

Treatment Options for Venous Skin ulcers

Compression stockings or bandages, are the mainstay of treatment. They apply pressure to improve circulation and promote healing. Elevating your leg regularly (3–4 times a day for 30 minutes each) also helps. Antibiotics are prescribed for bacterial infections, and special dressings can be used to accelerate healing. In some cases, surgery might be recommended to improve blood flow and prevent future problems.

Healing Time and Prevention

Most ulcers heal within 3–4 months with treatment, but some may take longer or persist. Here are ways to prevent venous ulcers:

• Quit smoking
• Maintain a healthy weight
• Manage chronic health conditions
• Take aspirin for blood clot prevention
• Reduce salt intake
• Exercise regularly
• Wear compression stockings
• Elevate your legs whenever possible

Sources:

• American Family Physician: “Diagnosis and Treatment of Venous Ulcers”
• The Cleveland Clinic: “Lower Extremity Ulcers”
• Johns Hopkins Medicine: “Venous ulcers”
• Additional medical resources listed in original source