Chronic Venous Insufficiency: Treating Ulcers

If leg swelling due to chronic venous insufficiency isn’t controlled, an ulcer (open wound) can form. Although ulcers vary in size and shape, they usually appear on the inside of the ankle.

Blood pools around the ankles. The area may look puffy or swollen, and the skin may dimple when pressed.

Fluid leaks from the veins into surrounding tissue. The ankle may bulge, and the skin may glisten.

An ulcer forms if the skin is broken by a bump or a scratch. The ulcer appears watery and may seep fluid.

Your doctor or nurse may apply a special dressing to help the ulcer heal and protect it from infection.

Treating an Ulcer

Visit your doctor. Ulcers need frequent medical care. Special dressings may be applied. You may be given antibiotics to fight infection.
Elevate your legs often to reduce swelling. The ulcer needs oxygen-rich blood to heal. This blood can’t reach the ulcer until swelling is reduced.

When to Call Your Doctor

You have an increase in pain.
You develop a fever of 101.0°F or higher.
The ulcer oozes discolored fluid or smells bad.
Swelling increases suddenly or the dressing feels tight.

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Chronic Venous Insufficiency: Treating Ulcers

Treating an Ulcer

When to Call Your Doctor