Chronic vein issues are a leading cause of ulcers or sores that will not heal on lower extremities. Venous ulcers, also known as venous stasis ulcers, are not very painful, but they can become painful if left untreated, thus potentially causing an unwanted infection. Ulcers can form to any size ranging from extremely small to several inches wide, and they typically occur around the ankle.
Another effect of chronic vein issues is non-healing wounds. Should you suffer trauma to your skin that results in an open wound, venous hypertension may prevent your wound from healing in a timely, healthy fashion. If smaller, minor wounds on your lower extremities do not begin to heal within one week, your healing may be delayed because of vein issues.
Inflammation in the veins that goes untreated may lead to damage of the capillaries and lymphatic ducts in your lower legs. This may lead to skin darkening and swelling of the legs. This happens when venous insufficiency is not addressed over a long period of time. The damage that the capillaries suffer will continuously lower oxygen levels in the legs, and this will affect healing time as well as cause venous ulcers. Former treatment plans consisted mainly of compression therapy and wound care, but the results were not as long-lasting as initially hoped.
Now, venous ulcers are treated by compression therapy that is accompanied by the closing of the specific veins that are causing venous insufficiency. This treatment method has drastically increased ulcer healing rate as well as lowered the chances of patients getting venous ulcers again.
If you have any of the signs of a venous ulcer including leg swelling, skin discoloration, or a poorly healing leg wound, contact us promptly at 615.716.VEIN to schedule an appointment with Dr. Reynolds.
