Leg ulcer

Approximately 70% of leg ulcers are venous. They are caused by increased blood pressure in the veins of the lower leg. As a result, fluid to 'oozes out' of the veins beneath the skin making it swell and thicken. You are at risk of developing a venous ulcer if you have varicose veins, have had a deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in the past, or have a family history of venous disease.

Arterial ulcers tend to be found at the lower end of the leg, on the foot or toes. They generally cause pain at night, or if your legs are elevated. You are at risk of developing an arterial ulcer if you have heart disease, diabetes, or peripheral vascular disease.

It is very important that your doctor examines your wound to determine the type as this will guide treatment. Diagnosis is usually made on the basis of the appearance and location of the ulcer (see table below).

Differences between venous leg ulcers and arterial leg ulcers

Take good care of your legs:

• Keep your feet warm and try to avoid injuries to your legs
• Examine your legs daily for any changes in colour or breaks in the skin
• Exercise as much as possible – this enables your blood vessels to form new branches, improving the circulation in your legs and helps the blood to return back to the heart, minimising swelling
• Do not stand for long period of time
• Don’t cross your legs when sitting
• Use support socks or stockings if travelling for long distances, but talk to your health professional first
• Use moisturising creams and emollients without perfume to keep your skin soft.

Observe any ulcers for signs of infection:

• An increase or a change in pain
• Increased redness
• Swelling
• An increase in the amount and colour of exudate (fluid) from the wound
• Odour from the wound
• A high temperature
  

A number of suitable dressings can be found if you click on the ‘our solutions’ tab.

Dressing changes

Some dressings can take off the ‘top’ of the wound (the ‘wound bed’) and the skin around the wound, which again can be painful. You will need to use a dressing that protects the wound and the surrounding skin.

If you have a venous leg ulcer, you must have compression therapy. Speak to your healthcare professional.

Help

Mölnlycke Health Care dressings have a special, gentle adhesive which means that they cause little or no pain when they are taken off. This is called Safetac^® technology. Click here to learn more about Safetac technology. Your doctor or nurse will know which of the dressings are best to use for your wound.

If you want to learn more about pain and how you can minimise it, please visit our Pain centre by clicking the button.