Venous Leg Ulcers at Georgia Endovascular

What causes leg ulcers?

Venous ulcers develop due to poor blood circulation in the veins of the legs, leading to an accumulation of pressure and fluid. The ulcers are characterized by shallow, irregularly shaped wounds often covered by a yellowish or greenish secretion called an exudate. These ulcers are painful, particularly when the leg is injured or swollen.

What are the different types of leg ulcers?

• Venous ulcer. Venous ulcers appear as shallow, weeping, irregularly shaped sores with red, inflamed edges. They are found mainly in the ankle region.
• Arterial ulcer. These ulcers are painful, circular, hollowed-out ulcerations that tend to form on the feet and toes.
• Diabetic ulcer. Diabetic or neurotrophic ulcers are common complications of type 2 diabetes. They generally form on the balls of the feet or heels.

What are the symptoms of leg ulcers?

Signs of leg ulceration include the following:

• Discolored skin
• Itching
• Open sores
• Pain in the legs
• Foul smell from the wound
• Skin texture changes
• Swollen veins
• Leg swelling (edema)

Who is at risk for leg ulcers?

Leg ulcerations can affect anyone, but people most at risk experience the following:

• Chronic venous insufficiency. This disorder occurs when the valves in the veins of the legs become damaged, causing sluggish blood flow back to the heart. Chronic venous insufficiency is one of the primary causes of venous leg ulcers.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT). DVT is the development of blood clots in the deep veins of the lower and sometimes upper extremities. If left untreated, DVT can lead to chronic venous insufficiency, increasing the risk of developing venous leg ulcers.
• Obesity. Excess adipose tissue puts additional pressure on the veins in the legs, which can impede blood flow and encourage the development of venous leg ulcers.
• Older age. Chronic venous insufficiency increases as people age, increasing the risk of developing venous leg ulcers.
• Smoking. Smoking damages blood vessels and impairs circulation, inhibiting wound healing. 
• History of leg ulcers. Individuals who have previously had venous leg ulcers are at a higher risk of developing them again.
• Inactivity or prolonged standing/sitting. Lack of exercise or extended periods of standing or sitting can lead to poor circulation and increase the risk of developing venous leg ulcers.

Women are also at higher risk of developing leg ulcers, as are people who’ve suffered severe leg injuries, people with varicose veins, and people with impaired leg mobility (paraplegia).

Leg ulcers and vein disease

The common causes of leg ulcers include the following vascular disorders:

Hypertension (high blood pressure)

High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is a common medical condition characterized by the increased force of blood against the walls of the arteries. While it is widely recognized that high blood pressure can lead to various cardiovascular complications, it can also contribute to developing leg ulcers.

Venous insufficiency

A common issue relating to leg ulcers is venous insufficiency. Venous insufficiency is a form of impaired blood flow in the legs. It commonly occurs when the valves in the veins become damaged or weakened, leading to backflow of blood and increased pressure.

When pressure in the blood vessels increases, it can rupture the capillaries in the lower legs, causing blood and fluid leakage, skin discoloration, and the development of ulcerations and wounds.

How are leg ulcers treated?

Historically, venous ulcers were treated with compression garments and wound management. Although compression garments can relieve symptoms and accelerate healing, more effective treatments are available.

Leg ulcers caused by vein disease will not heal without treatment. If left unaddressed, venous ulcers can cause pain, discomfort, and complications like infection. Treating venous ulcers requires a specialized approach. At Georgia Endovascular, our team of specialists offers extensive expertise in symptom management for vascular disorders.

Compassionate Treatment for Leg Ulcers in Georgia

We offer a broad scope of effective therapies, including minimally invasive interventions that improve blood circulation significantly. Our treatment protocols require minimal recovery time and provide long-term symptom relief.

Early intervention can halt pain progression and improve the appearance and function of the lower extremities.

If you are struggling with leg ulcers caused by vein disorders, please contact us today to schedule a comprehensive consultation in Atlanta.