Leg Ulcers

What is a Leg Ulcer?

Unhealed sores or open wounds on the legs are referred to as leg ulcers. These types of ulcers often occur when the skin's barrier has been breached and the area is then compromised by bacteria.

This condition is most commonly caused by poor circulation, though it may be attributed to a variety of ailments.

These wounds are also more common in women, but they can affect both men and women of any age. If they’re treated early, leg ulcers can improve without causing any further complications.

The odds of developing leg ulcers increase with age, and they are often hereditary.

Other causes of leg ulcers are:

• poor circulation
• diabetes
• high blood pressure
• heart disease
• high cholesterol
• kidney disease
• increased pressure in the legs
• smoking
• infection

Varicose veins, which are swollen, visible veins, are often associated with leg ulcers. Leg ulcers are quite often a complication of untreated varicose veins.

Treating leg ulcers is crucial to alleviate pain, infection, and to stop the wound from growing in size.

Infected ulcers are a serious issue and should be treated immediately with antibiotics.

Compression bandages are also used to help ease swelling, close the wound, and prevent infection. Your doctor may also prescribe an ointment to apply topically to the ulcer.

Your doctor may order orthotics or braces to help you walk better while preventing future ulcers, and may also recommend aspirin to prevent blood clots in the legs.

Contact one of Village Podiatry Center's vein clinics to schedule an appointment.