It is easy to take your body’s amazing healing abilities for granted. However, there are times, as with a venous ulcer, when this process becomes interrupted. The team at Vascular and Vein Institute of the South in Germantown, North Millington, and Memphis, Tennessee, Oxford, and Senatobia, Mississippi, and West Memphis and Forest City, Arkansas, has extensive experience treating venous ulcers. Call the office to speak to a friendly team member or use the online booking tool to schedule your first appointment today.
Ordinarily, your circulatory system plays an important role in healing an open sore or wound. Blood is rushed to the site of the wound, bringing nutrients and proteins to help repair the damage. This blood then moves away from the wound and back towards your heart through your veins. For most people, this system works flawlessly and automatically. However, for some, the process can become interrupted.
A venous ulcer, also called a vascular ulcer, occurs when an open wound takes a long time to heal, usually due to poor blood flow. These ulcers usually occur on the leg near the ankle and can take months or years to heal if left untreated.
Often, the veins that carry the blood back towards your heart malfunction, leading to a stagnation of blood in your limb. This stagnation puts extra pressure on the open sore, making healing difficult.
Most people that experience a venous ulcer describe an itching or burning sensation, as well as swelling of the area around the ulcer. Other symptoms include:
It is important to prevent infection and to recognize the symptoms of infection if it does occur. These symptoms include worsening pain, redness, fever, and pus.
Venous ulcers occur more often in the elderly, particularly women. In addition, smoking, obesity, varicose veins, and blood circulation problems can make it more likely that you will develop an ulcer. If you are concerned that you or a loved one may be experiencing a venous ulcer, contact the team at Vascular and Vein Institute of the South.
Treatment is aimed at improving the blood circulation in your leg to assist the healing process. This may include wearing compression stockings and elevating your leg several times per day. In some cases, surgery may be needed to improve the circulation in your legs. The team at Vascular and Vein Institute of the South will work with you to develop the proper treatment plan.
To learn more about venous ulcers and what you can do to get the treatment that you need, schedule your first appointment with the team at Vascular and Vein Institute of the South. Call the office to speak with a team member or book using the online tool today.
