Venous Ulcer

VENOUS ULCER

Venous ulcer. A wound that heals more slowly than usual is called a venous ulcer, often called a venous stasis ulcer. It usually happens on your legs close to your ankle and is caused by problems with veins and blood flow.

VENOUS ULCER

Sores known as venous ulcers can take weeks or even months to heal. They have the potential to rapidly worsen, increasing the risk of complications that can result in limb loss for some people. If you receive effective treatment, these problems can be avoided.

Causes

Tiny valves in your veins maintain the flow of blood throughout your body. In order to return blood to your heart against gravity, these valves open and close. Venous disorders can impair valve performance in certain individuals. You may also be at risk for foot and leg ulcers if you have diabetes or other medical disorders.
One typical cause of valve dysfunction is chronic venous insufficiency. It happens when your valves are broken or not strong enough to function properly.
Additional causes of venous ulcers include:
Hypertension, or high blood pressure, harms the walls of blood vessels.
Venous obstruction is a blockage of a vein that can occasionally be caused by blood clots.
Blood flowing backward through weakened or broken valves is known as venous reflux.

Treatment

Venous ulcers are not self-healing. Permanent tissue damage is more likely the longer you live with them. The harm may spread or result in illnesses like gangrene that could endanger life or limbs.
Your damaged limb may need to be surgically removed (amputated) in extreme circumstances. This risk is considerably reduced by prompt treatment from a skilled wound care professional.

In the event of an infection, antibiotics.
Stockings or compression bandages to increase blood flow.
lotions that offer antimicrobial protection.
medications to calm hyperactive nerves, such as painkillers.
techniques (debridement) to get rid of dead tissue and waste.
referrals to experts in case you require assistance in managing long-term illnesses like diabetes.

Prevention

A venous stasis ulcer can be avoided with preventive care. These actions can reduce the likelihood that ulcers will reappear following treatment if you have already experienced one.
Preventing venous ulcers involves: Maintaining treatment for long-term illnesses that impact vein health, such as high blood pressure.
keeping a healthy weight in mind.
Giving up smoking.
using anticoagulants, also known as blood thinners, as directed in order to prevent blood clots.

Summary

Wounds with venous stasis ulcers heal slowly. Usually, those who have vein problems experience them. Prompt expert care is required to avoid potentially fatal consequences, such as infections. Additionally, nonhealing ulcers increase your chance of amputation. Because venous ulcers can return (recur) after treatment, preventative interventions are frequently included of the management. The majority of people recover completely. However, it is imperative that all care recommendations be followed.