What Happens If Venous Ulcers Are Left Untreated?

 At Vitality Vein Care, we encounter a wide array of vascular concerns from patients near Celina, Frisco, and Prosper and Allen, TX. One of the most common yet misunderstood is a nonhealing leg wound known as a venous ulcer. But what exactly is a venous ulcer? It's a sore that develops when the leg veins don't return blood back toward the heart as they should, a condition known as venous insufficiency. Venous ulcers are the most common type of leg ulcer, accounting for a large percentage of all cases. 

What causes venous ulcers? 

The most frequent cause of venous ulcers is poor circulation in the lower limbs, typically due to conditions like deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and varicose veins. When blood pools in the leg veins, it increases pressure on the vein walls. Over time, this high pressure can damage the skin and underlying tissues, leading to the development of an ulcer. Risk factors include:  

• Age over 50 
• History of DVT 
• Varicose veins 
• Obesity 
• Smoking 
• Sedentary lifestyle 

At Vitality Vein Care, our experienced team can determine your risk factors through a comprehensive evaluation and create an appropriate treatment plan for you. 

What are the symptoms of a venous ulcer? 

The first sign of a venous ulcer is often a discolored or darkened area on the skin, typically around the ankle. As the ulcer develops, other symptoms can appear, such as:  

• Painful, swollen leg 
• Itchy, flaky skin around the ulcer 
• A foul-smelling discharge from the ulcer 
• A red, swollen, and warm area around the ulcer 
• Fever 

What happens if venous ulcers are left untreated? 

Untreated venous ulcers can lead to serious complications. At Vitality Vein Care, we frequently emphasize to our Celina, Prosper, and Frisco patients that prompt venous ulcer treatment can prevent these issues. If left untreated, venous ulcers may enlarge, making them more difficult to heal. Infection is a significant risk, which can progress to severe skin and soft tissue infection (cellulitis) or even a bone infection (osteomyelitis). In the worst-case scenario, untreated venous ulcers can lead to a life-threatening condition called sepsis. 

Why should you seek venous ulcer treatment? 

Prompt and effective treatment of venous ulcers can prevent complications, speed healing, and reduce the chance of recurrence. At Vitality Vein Care in Prosper and Allen, TX, we offer a range of treatments tailored to the specific needs and conditions of our patients near Celina and Frisco, TX. Early treatment can significantly improve your quality of life and reduce the risk of long-term health issues. Don't hesitate to seek help if you're experiencing any symptoms of venous ulcers. We are here to help you on your journey toward better vascular health. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.