Ulcers which develop in the leg can lead to pain, an unsightly appearance and poor blood circulation in the affected area. They may also cause the lower leg to experience increased blood pressure. These types of ulcers are referred to as venous leg ulcers and they occur more frequently in women and in older people.

Some of the reasons for the discrepancy between genders and ages can be attributed to multiple pregnancies in women, a decreased activity level in older people or obesity in either population. Venous leg ulercs are though to affect approximately one million people per year throughout North America.

Typical indications that you may have developed venous leg ulcers include swelling above the ankle, where these types of ulcers most often appear. You may also notice dry or red skin, itching or flaking in the area and raw, exposed wounds. If you are bothered by one or more of these symptoms, contact your healthcare professional for treatment as soon as possible.

Your doctor will complete a physical examination that will evaluate your blood pressure, weight, previous history of skin ulcers and current level of pain you are experiencing. The diagnosis will be done by interviewing you as well as through the use of an MRI, CT scan or X-ray.

The first type of treatment your doctor is likely to try, after the affected area has been throughly cleansed, is to wrap it in compression bandages. The purpose of this is to put pressure on the area to encourage increased blood flow and the reductions of swelling.

Some other methods of pain relief and eliminating the ulcer altogether that may be suggested are to wear supportive hosiery and exercise the area to prevent blood clots from forming. Anti-biotics may be presribed, but generally this is only done when cellulitis has occured. As a last resort, you may be referred for surgery to remove the venous leg ulcer by performing a skin graft in the affected area.