YourCareEverywhere

Health Research

Diseases and Conditions

Chronic Venous Insufficiency: Treating Ulcers
DISEASES AND CONDITIONS

Chronic Venous Insufficiency: Treating Ulcers

March 20, 2017

Chronic Venous Insufficiency: Treating Ulcers

82948If leg swelling because of chronic venous insufficiency isn’t controlled, an open wound (ulcer) can form. Although ulcers vary in size and shape, they usually appear on the inside of the ankle.

Treating an ulcer

  • Visit your healthcare provider. Ulcers need frequent medical care. Special dressings may be applied. You may be given antibiotics to fight infection.

  • Your healthcare provider may prescribe medicines, such as aspirin or pentoxifylline, to help the ulcer heal.

  • Your healthcare provider may prescribe compression hose to help with the swelling. 

  • 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 healthcare provider

Seek immediate medical attention if: 

  • You have an increase in pain

  • You develop a fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher, or as directed by your healthcare provider

  • The area around the ulcer becomes red, tender, or both

  • The ulcer oozes discolored fluid or smells bad

  • Swelling increases suddenly or the dressing feels tight

Updated:  

March 20, 2017

Sources:  

Diagnosis and Treatment of Venous Ulcers. Collins, L. American Family Physician. 2010, is. 81, ed. 8, pp. s989-996., Medical Management of Lower Extremity Chronic Venous Disease. UpToDate

Reviewed By:  

Mancini, Mary, MD,Sather, Rita, RN