What is a leg ulcer?
A leg ulcer, also known as a venous skin ulcer, is a sore that won’t heal or is slow to heal. This condition can affect anyone, but it’s more common in women. If you break the skin on your leg and have poor circulation, a leg ulcer may develop. This indicates the valves in the area are not keeping blood moving properly.
Though leg ulcers are easy to treat, if left untreated, they can lead to serious issues such as an infection.
What are the symptoms of leg ulcers?
Along with the tell-tale symptom of a sore that won’t heal, other symptoms of leg ulcers include:
- Pain around the sore
- Swollen skin in the area
- Enlarged veins in the leg
- A rash or dry skin around the wound
- Oozing pus from the wound
If you have diabetes, you may not feel pain stemming from a leg ulcer. It’s important to check for wounds regularly if you have diabetes so issues can be detected and treated early.
What are leg ulcer treatment options?
Dr. Chane and his team use have many treatment options for leg ulcers. If your leg ulcer is infected, Dr. Chane and his team will recommend antibiotics to fight the infection. If needed, he’ll also drain any infection from the wound. Keep the area covered as directed to protect it from becoming infected again.
You'll need to improve your circulation when it comes to treating leg ulcers. Compression bandages help improve blood flow and encourage healing. You will also need to keep your legs elevated throughout the day.
Am I at risk for developing leg ulcers?
Leg ulcers are often hereditary, meaning if you have a family history of them, you’re at increased risk of developing them as well.
Other risk factors include:
- Obesity
- Having diabetes
- Smoking
- A history of high blood pressure
Lower your risk of developing leg ulcers by quitting smoking and managing health issues like diabetes and high blood pressure.
Leg ulcers are often painful and if left untreated can lead to other complications. If you notice a sore on your leg that is slow to heal or isn’t healing at all, be sure to schedule an appointment with Dr. Chane and his team at CA Heart and Vein Specialists. Schedule your appointment by calling the office or using the online scheduler.
