FAQs About Venous Ulcers

By Reeder Vein Institute
September 15, 2016

Venous UlcersVenous skin ulcers are leg wounds that are caused by improper venous blood circulation in the legs. When your veins are unable to sufficiently pump blood to the heart, the blood pools in your veins and causes the tissue to breakdown, leading to an ulcer. Venous ulcers start out as minor skin ulcerations but can grow in size if left untreated. It’s important to receive treatment for venous ulcers as early as possible for optimal healing. To better understand venous ulcers, check out some of the most frequently asked questions about this condition.

What are the symptoms of venous ulcers?
The most common symptoms are aches and pain in the legs, ankle swelling, discoloration of the legs (dark red, purple or brown), and a rash or dryness in the skin surrounding the lower legs.

Who is at risk for a venous ulcer?
You are more likely to develop venous ulcers if you have a history of leg ulcers, diabetes, vascular disease, congestive heart failure, or recent edema.

How are venous ulcers treated?
You and your healthcare provider will work together to address the underlying problem that may be prohibiting your wound from healing. Depending on the findings, your doctor may recommend the following:

  • Antibiotics to fight the bacteria that is preventing proper healing
  • Removal of dead or infected tissue to improve the healing process
  • Dressing the wound to minimize infection and promote tissue growth
  • Using a compression wrap to help improve the functionality of the venous valves

Are there complications linked to venous ulcers?
Living with venous ulcers can make it more difficult for you to be mobile on your own, which can take a toll on your quality of life. It’s also common for venous ulcers to be accompanied by infection, pain and even odor due to their wound.

Do venous ulcers heal?
Because venous ulcers are multifaceted wounds, they may take quite a bit of medical treatment and attention to heal completely. However, if treatment is aggressive, ongoing and all-inclusive, it is possible for venous ulcers to heal.

Do you suffer from venous ulcers? Contact Reeder Vein Institute.
For more information about diagnosing and treating venous ulcers, contact us today.  You can reach us directly at 682-499-5672 in Fort Worth.  We look forward to hearing from you!

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