If you have venous ulcers, they’re likely caused by vein valves that aren’t working properly. The vein and vascular experts at Hamilton Vascular in Webster, Sugar Land, Round Rock, Katy, and San Antonio, Texas, work to find the underlying cause of your venous ulcers so they can prevent recurrence. They use a variety of noninvasive and minimally invasive solutions to help you recapture healthy leg function and appearance. Call the location nearest you or book an appointment online today.
Venous ulcers are chronic wounds that don't heal normally. Typically, venous ulcers develop in the lower leg, often above your ankle.
In most cases, venous ulcers are caused by leg vein valve malfunction. If you have a vein valve malfunction, your blood tries to flow up but ends up flowing backwards and pooling to cause pressure in your legs. This is known as venous insufficiency.
If that pressure isn't relieved, your skin cells can start dying. This necrotic tissue then forms a wound, the venous leg ulcer.
Often, you'll have symptoms of venous insufficiency before you develop obvious symptoms of venous leg ulcers. Symptoms of venous insufficiency include leg swelling, heavy-feeling legs, itchy legs, and darkened, hardened skin above your ankle.
Venous leg ulcers are slow to heal and usually have irregular borders with a red base. Leg pain is common with venous leg ulcers. You may also notice changes in the skin around the ulcer, including warm, shiny, discolored, or tight skin.
If your sore gets infected, you could also experience pus drainage and foul odor coming from the wound.
The treatment for venous ulcers starts with a plan to improve your circulation. Usually, this includes changes like wearing compression hosiery, practicing better posture, exercising more often, and sometimes prescription medication.
Additionally, vein procedures may be helpful. Your treatment may include:
The Hamilton Vascular team works with you to find the ideal solutions for venous leg ulcers. Call the office nearest you or click the online booking tool to get help today.