What are venous ulcers?
If you have faulty valves in your veins, blood can pool in your legs and create varicose veins and venous insufficiency. Your legs may swell and you may develop sores, called venous ulcers.
What are the symptoms of a venous ulcer?
A venous ulcer is a problem that occurs because of venous insufficiency, so it’s important to understand how the symptoms go hand in hand. Symptoms of venous insufficiency that can lead to a venous ulcer include:
- Swelling
- Pain when you stand
- Cramping
- Heaviness
- Throbbing
- Itching
- Skin discoloration
Another telltale symptom of a venous ulcer is an open sore that oozes. Signs that an ulcer is about to form are:
- Hard, dark purple skin
- Heaviness in your lower legs
- Cramping in your lower legs
- Warm, tight skin near your vein
Reach out to the team at Neudorf Infectious Diseases Clinic if you’re experiencing any of these symptoms.
How can I take care of a venous ulcer wound?
The team at Neudorf Infectious Diseases Clinic includes experts in venous ulcer wound care who teach you how to clean the wound and stave off infection. Some care tips include:
- Cleaning the wound frequently
- Keeping the wound covered and dry
- Changing your bandage daily
It’s imperative to follow Dr. Miller’s care instructions closely to hasten your healing and prevent further complications.
Can I prevent venous ulcers?
Yes. Dr. Miller recommends ways that you can increase the circulation in your legs, such as exercise, to decrease your risk for venous ulcers. Other lifestyle changes you can make include:
- Not smoking
- Achieving a normal weight
- Stabilizing blood sugar levels
- Managing blood pressure
- Normalizing cholesterol levels
In addition, she offers outpatient treatments like endovenous ablation and VenaSeal™ vein closure to address the underlying cause of venous ulcers and help you heal.
What is endovenous ablation?
During endovenous ablation, Dr. Miller uses radiofrequency energy to create sudden, high heat to close up and seal the problem vein. Your blood reroutes itself through your other veins. The procedure has grown in popularity because it’s performed on a same-day, outpatient basis.
If you have an open sore or you’re at risk of developing a venous ulcer, call the Neudorf Infectious Diseases Clinic office closest to you or book an appointment online.
