In addition to the pain and discomfort they cause, venous ulcers can increase the risk of infection if they are not properly treated.

Early diagnosis and evaluation by an angiologist or vascular specialist can help prevent complications and improve quality of life.

This happens when the venous valves stop working properly, causing blood to pool in the lower legs and increasing pressure inside the veins.

Over time, the skin and surrounding tissues weaken, eventually leading to wounds that may take weeks or even months to heal.

They usually appear near the ankles, especially on the inner part of the leg.

Several factors can increase the risk, including:

• Varicose veins

• Family history of venous disease

• Sitting or standing for long periods

• Obesity or excess weight

• Advanced age

• Previous deep vein thrombosis (DVT)

• Lack of physical activity

• Chronic leg swelling

When circulation is impaired, tissues receive less oxygen and fewer nutrients, making it harder for the skin to heal naturally.

• Swelling in the legs and ankles

• A feeling of heaviness

• Pain or burning sensation

• Itching

• Skin discoloration

• Thickening or hardening of the skin

• Visible varicose veins

Later, an open wound may develop that:

• Takes a long time to heal

• Produces drainage or fluid

• Causes pain or tenderness

• Has irregular borders

• May produce a foul odor if infection is present

When the skin remains open for a prolonged period, bacteria can easily enter the wound and further delay healing.

Common signs of infection include:

• Redness around the wound

• Increased pain

• More severe swelling

• Yellow drainage or foul-smelling discharge

• Warmth around the affected area

• Fever

If the infection worsens, it may spread into deeper tissues and lead to serious complications.

For this reason, it is important to avoid self-medication or home remedies and seek care from angiology and vascular surgery specialists.

• Leg wounds that heal slowly

• Frequent swelling

• Skin changes in the legs

• Persistent pain

• Varicose veins accompanied by wounds

• Drainage or foul odor from the lesion

A vascular specialist can evaluate your circulation and determine the most appropriate treatment to promote healing and reduce the risk of infection.

Common treatment options include:

• Specialized wound cleaning and care

• Compression therapy

• Leg elevation

• Medications prescribed by a specialist

• Infection management

• Treatments for venous insufficiency

• Minimally invasive procedures in some cases

Compression therapy is often an important part of treatment because it helps improve venous blood flow and reduce swelling.

Some recommendations include:

• Maintaining a healthy weight

• Walking regularly

• Avoiding sitting or standing for long periods

• Elevating the legs while resting

• Wearing compression stockings if recommended by your doctor

• Treating varicose veins early

• Seeking medical evaluation for persistent symptoms

Prevention and early treatment are essential for protecting vascular health.

At BlueNetHospitals, our Angiology and Vascular Surgery specialists can help evaluate your vascular health and recommend the most appropriate treatment for your condition.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Venous Ulcers (FAQ)

1. Can venous ulcers heal?
   Yes. With proper treatment and management of venous circulation, many venous ulcers can heal successfully.
   
   

2. Are venous ulcers dangerous?
   They can become serious if left untreated, especially because of the risk of infection and progressive skin damage.
   
   

3. Can varicose veins cause venous ulcers?
   Yes. Varicose veins are part of chronic venous disease and may contribute to the development of venous ulcers in advanced stages.
   
   

4. Why do venous ulcers take so long to heal?
   Poor circulation prevents tissues from receiving enough oxygen and nutrients needed for proper healing.
   
   

5. What specialist treats venous ulcers?
   An angiologist or vascular surgeon is the appropriate specialist to evaluate circulation problems and recommend the right treatment.
   
   

6. How can I tell if a venous ulcer is infected?
   Common signs include redness, severe pain, drainage, foul odor, swelling, and fever.