Introduction
Arterial and venous ulcers are some of the most common and challenging types of ulcers. Both arterial and venous ulcers occur in the lower extremities, but have key differences in their causes, symptoms, and treatments. Both types of ulcers can form when a bruise or cut worsens or as skin breaks down due to a lack of blood supply.
Arterial Ulcers
Also known as ischemic ulcers, typically develop when there is poor blood flow to the affected area due to narrow or blocked arteries.
Causes
- High cholesterol
- Chronic kidney issues
- Smoking
- Diabetes
- High Blood Pressure
- Limited mobility
- Restrictions to blood vessels
- Thickening of arteries
- Vasculitis
Characteristics of Arterial Ulcers
- Location: On foot, between or on tips of toes, heels, or outer ankle
- Pain Level: Very painful cramping, often exacerbated by elevating the leg
- Appearance: Shiny, tight, hairless skin on the legs and toes, cool to the touch
- Color: Pale or bluish presentation of skin with typically red tissue in wound bed
- Exudate: Often dry, minimal drainage
- Size and Shape: Small, deep wound with well-defined edges
Treatment of Arterial Ulcers
Oftentimes, the body has the ability to heal arterial wounds on its own, but because of poor circulation the process may be slower. A wound care specialist will determine the best course of treatment and address any underlying issues that may impact the healing journey.
Preventing Arterial Ulcers
- Regularly examine feet and legs
- Protect feet from injury
- Wear comfortable shoes
- Avoid soaking feet
- Avoid alcohol and tobacco products
- Monitor blood pressure and cholesterol
- Eat a healthy diet
- Regularly exercise
Venous Ulcers
Also known as stasis ulcers, occur when the valves in the veins fail to properly push blood back up to the heart, causing blood to pool in the lower legs. Venous ulcers are often large with irregular shapes and are typically located on the lower leg.
Causes of Venous Ulcers
- Blood clotting disorders
- Varicose veins
- Obesity
- Heart Failure
- High Blood Pressure
- Deep Vein Thrombosis
- Injuries or trauma
- Pregnancy
Characteristics of Venous Ulcers
- Location: Inner lower leg, above ankle
- Pain Level: Dull leg pain or aches, pain may be due to underlying chronic condition
- Appearance: Shiny, scaly skin, warm to the touch
- Color: Ulcers are red with granular tissue. A rusty red discoloration (hemosiderin staining) presents in skin above the ankle including shins
- Exudate: Due to moderate to heavy drainage, wound often appears as “wet”
- Size and Shape: Shallow and large with irregular shape
Treatment of Venous Ulcers
If a patient has a venous ulcer, it is important that they seek treatment as soon as possible. The longer venous ulcers go untreated the likelihood of permanent tissue damage increases, this damage can spread or cause life-threatening infections. In some cases, amputation may be necessary to prevent the spread of infection.
Our treatments for venous ulcers are dependent on the location and severity of the ulcer. For more information on how we treat these types of wounds, click below.
Prevention of Venous Ulcers
- Manage high blood pressure
- Compression stockings
- Exercise and weight management
- Avoiding alcohol and tobacco
- Take blood thinners (if prescribed, to avoid blood clots)