Everything about Venous Ulcer

What is a venous ulcer?

An ulcer is an open wound without adequate skin covering. Ulcers can occur anywhere on the body. Most people are familiar with ulcers in the stomach. Similarly, ulcers can also occur on external skin surface. One of the most common types of ulcers on legs is venous ulcers. Venous ulcers are quite common in North America. The major cause of venous ulcers is varicose veins. Varicose veins are under high internal pressure. This leads to blood leaking out of the vein near the ankle. The skin becomes brownish/grey and the discoloration is circumferential. With time, the skin breaks open and starts to drain fluid. Venous ulcers always occur on inside of the ankle.

Venous ulcers take time to develop. In most individuals with varicose veins, venous ulcers develop in the 4th or 5th decade of life. Both men and women are prone to venous ulcers. Venous ulcers are very superficial, surrounded by dark grey skin, and appear red and hot.

Venous ulcers are quite painful and limping is not uncommon in individuals. Venous ulcers are extremely difficult to treat. There is no immediate cure for venous ulcers. No matter what treatment is undertaken, time, patience, and motivation are required- plus a knowledgeable surgeon.