Vascular wounds, also known as venous ulcers, can take weeks, months, even years to heal. The board-certified specialists at Long Island Heart & Vascular in Westbury and Ridgewood, New York, are experts at treating vascular wounds as well as the underlying issues causing the condition. If you’re dealing with a slow-to-heal wound on your leg, typically above the ankle, schedule a visit at Long Island Heart & Vascular for an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment. Call the office or book your appointment online.
Venous ulcers are open sores that occur when the veins in your legs do not push blood back up to your heart as well as they should. This is called venous insufficiency. When blood backs up in your veins, increased pressure and excess fluid can build up and prevent nutrients and oxygen from reaching the affected tissue. This causes tissue damage and can result in the formation of a venous ulcer. These sores most often occur on the leg above the ankle.
Because venous ulcers occur as a consequence of venous insufficiency, early symptoms to watch for include:
Characteristics of a venous ulcer include:
These open sores are often easily infected and may also develop a foul odor and drain pus.
Issues and habits that increase your risk of developing venous ulcers include:
Treatment includes aggressive wound care that may include frequent visits for dressing changes and other therapies designed to speed healing of the ulcer.
Effective treatment also requires relief of the pressure causing the venous insufficiency. You can help accomplish this at home by wearing compression stockings as directed, elevating your legs above your heart whenever possible, and walking daily as instructed.
Your Long Island Heart & Vascular specialist may also recommend further treatment to resolve the underlying issue, such as a procedure to eliminate varicose veins.
Schedule your visit today by calling the office or booking your appointment online.