A venous ulcer is a shallow skin wound that develops when the veins don’t return blood back toward the heart as they normally would. This is called venous insufficiency. These ulcers usually develop on the sides of the lower leg, above the ankle, and below the calf.
Thomas Cunningham, M.D., is a triple-board certified doctor who helps with various vein diseases and conditions, including venous ulcers. Contact Trident Vein Center in Spring Hill and Brentwood, Tennessee, to get the treatment you need.
What Causes Venous Ulcers?
Venous ulcers occur when the veins in your legs don’t work properly. Normally, veins have one-way valves that help keep blood flowing toward your heart. However, if these valves become damaged, blood can back up and pool in the veins. This can cause blood to leak out into the surrounding tissue, leading to skin breakdown and the formation of an ulcer.
What Are the Symptoms?
Recognizing the early signs of venous ulcers is important for prompt treatment and better healing outcomes. Common symptoms include:
- Skin turns dark red or purple where blood is seeping out of the vein.
- Thick, dry, and itchy skin.
- Pain at the sight of the ulcer.
- Legs may become swollen and sore.
- An infected wound may cause an odor.
- Pus may drain from the wound.
- The area around the wound may be more tender and red.
Call us when you first see signs of a venous ulcer, as we may be able to help prevent the ulcer from forming. If it is already formed, seek treatment immediately; smaller and newer ulcers heal faster.
Venous Ulcer Treatment Options
Treating venous ulcers involves a combination of medical interventions and lifestyle changes to promote healing and prevent recurrence. Common treatment options include:
- Compression Therapy:Â Wearing compression stockings helps improve blood flow in the legs, reduce swelling, and support the healing of ulcers.
- Wound Care:Â Regular cleaning and dressing of the ulcer are essential to prevent infection and promote healing. Specialized wound care products may be used.
- Medication:Â If there is an infection, the doctor might prescribe antibiotics. Other medications might be used to improve blood flow and reduce pain.
- Elevation:Â Keeping your legs elevated as much as possible helps decrease swelling and improve blood circulation.
- Exercise:Â Gentle exercises can improve circulation and strengthen the muscles in your legs, aiding the healing process.
- Lifestyle Changes:Â Maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding long periods of standing or sitting, and following a balanced diet can help prevent future ulcers.
- Surgery:Â In severe cases, surgical procedures may be necessary to improve vein function and remove damaged tissue.
Why Choose Trident Vein Center?
At Trident Vein Center, you’ll receive top-notch care from Dr. Thomas Cunningham, a triple-board-certified Vascular Interventional Radiologist. Dr. Cunningham has successfully performed thousands of minimally invasive, catheter-based, and ultrasound-guided procedures. Many of our patients have endured years of leg pain and outdated treatments, but with Dr. Cunningham and his team of skilled medical professionals, you’ll benefit from the latest and best treatments available.
Dr. Cunningham established Trident Vein Center to offer comprehensive care for venous diseases, often misunderstood as mere cosmetic concerns. He finds immense satisfaction in diagnosing, treating, and monitoring his patients' progress. Trust Trident Vein Center for an advanced approach to your venous health.
Frequently Asked Questions
Dr. Cunningham will ask questions about your health and examine affected areas. He may also perform ultrasound testing, all of which can be done in the comfort of the office. He may use other tests to check for problems related to venous skin ulcers or to recheck the ulcer if it does not heal within a few weeks after starting treatment.
Ignoring a venous ulcer can lead to serious complications, including:
- Infection: The ulcer can become infected, causing increased pain, redness, and swelling. In severe cases, it may lead to cellulitis or sepsis.
- Chronic Wounds: Without treatment, venous ulcers can become chronic, meaning they won't heal on their own and can last for months or even years.
- Increased Pain and Discomfort: Untreated ulcers can become more painful and cause significant discomfort, making daily activities difficult.
- Skin Changes: The skin around the ulcer may become thicker and discolored, and additional ulcers may form.
- Reduced Mobility: Persistent pain and swelling can limit your ability to move around easily, affecting your quality of life.
The healing time for a venous ulcer can vary depending on several factors, including the size and severity of the ulcer, your overall health, and how consistently you follow the treatment plan. On average, most venous ulcers heal within three to four months with appropriate treatment.
However, some ulcers may heal faster, especially if they are small and treated early. Conversely, larger or more severe ulcers, or those that become infected, may take longer to heal.
Venous ulcers typically do not heal on their own without medical intervention. These ulcers are caused by underlying issues with blood flow and vein function, which require proper treatment to address. Without appropriate care, a venous ulcer can worsen, become infected, and lead to more serious complications.
Take Control of Your Venous Health Today
Don't let venous ulcers affect your quality of life any longer. Our experienced team is here to provide you with the comprehensive care you need to heal and prevent future ulcers.Â
Contact our offices in Spring Hill or Brentwood, Tennessee, at â€615-455-3000 to begin your journey to healthier, pain-free legs.
