Treatment & Prevention of Venous leg ulcer


A leg ulcer is a long-lasting (chronic) sore that takes more than 4 to 6 weeks to heal. They usually develop on the inside of the leg, just above the ankle.

Venous ulcers, also referred to as stasis, insufficiency or varicose ulcers, are the result of malfunctioning venous valves causing pressure in the veins to increase. These typically occur along the medial or lateral distal (lower) leg.
Symptoms of Venous leg ulcer
Symptoms of the early stage of venous leg ulcer are quite different from symptoms of ulcer that has been infected.
Major Symptoms of the early stage of venous leg ulcer include:
·         Discoloration around the ulcer site
·         Hardened skin around the ulcer site.
·         Swollen ankles
·         Aching and swollen legs
·         Itching and pains around the ulcer site
·         Reddish and scaly skin
Treatment of Venous leg ulcer
The most common treatment is a compression bandage or stocking. The pressure should improve the blood circulation in your leg, boosting your body’s ability to heal the sore.
  • You’ll probably be told to raise your leg for set lengths of time as well. This also helps circulation. Doctors typically recommend a half-hour at a time, 3 or 4 times a day.
  • If your ulcer is infected by bacteria, you’ll probably be given antibiotics to kill the infection. You might also be given a moist dressing to put over the ulcer to help it heal more quickly.
  • In some cases, your doctor might recommend surgery to improve the circulation in your legs. This can help your ulcer heal and could prevent similar problems later.
Most ulcers heal after 3 or 4 months of treatment. However, some can take longer, and some may never clear up.
Prevention of Venous leg ulcer
There are a variety of ways you can prevent venous skin ulcers through lifestyle changes, diet or medication. You might:
  • Quit smoking
  • Lose weight
  • Control chronic conditions such as high blood pressure or diabetes
  • Take aspirin to prevent blood clots
  • Reduce the amount of salt in your diet
  • Exercise regularly
  • Wear compression stockings
  • Keep your legs elevated when you can

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