Venous Insufficiency and Leg Ulcers
Why Is It Important to Know the Signs and Conditions of Venous Insufficiency?
Chronic venous insufficiency disease starts and results from leg ulcers that start in the veins of the lower extremities – usually from the knee and below. Many people delay making an appointment with a Venous Doctor until it’s too late and the ulcers have already occurred. This is when an open wound or leg ulcer occurs.
Leg ulcers are very predominant among older adults. More than half of lower extremity ulcers are caused by venous insufficiency. The pressure coming from the veins is what leads to ulceration and other complications. Older adults, obese patients, and those with mobility problems are all likely to develop venous ulcers of the legs.
If you are feeling pressure in your lower legs, the best thing to do is elevate your legs for 30 minutes 3 to 4 times a day to reduce edema and inflammation.
The next most important step is to make an appointment at any of our 6 clinics and schedule a free ultrasound to identify any circulation issues or underlying venous issues.
If you or a loved one are at the stage where an open wound has already occurred, and you don’t know where to start or who to call – please call our office immediately to dress the wound and discuss treatment for the venous leg ulcers. Protecting that wound from infection and preventing any future ulcers is important.
Please visit our website where you can learn more about wound care and venous insufficiency and the best possible treatments:
Want to learn more about venous wounds and treatments? Call our main clinic in Glendale, Arizona today at 602-298-8346.
Sources: Wound Source; www.veinmagazine.com