Venous Ulcer Treatment in Fort Worth, TX

Veins have one-way valves that keep blood circulating to the heart. In venous insufficiency, the valves are damaged, and blood backs up and pools in the vein. The increased pressure in the vein causes inflammation.  As the inflammation spreads out from the vein, it damages the tissue which can lead to ulceration.

In the area where the blood is seeping out of the vein, the skin turns dark red or purple. Skin may also become thick, dry and itchy. Untreated, an ulcer may form and become painful. Legs may become swollen and sore. An infected wound may cause an odor, and puss may drain from the wound. The area around the wound also may be more tender and red. It’s important to call us when you first see signs of a venous ulcer, as we may be able to help prevent the ulcer from forming. If it is already formed, seek treatment immediately; smaller and newer ulcers heal faster.

Your doctor will ask questions about your health and will examine affected areas. They may also perform ultrasound testing. All can be done within the comfort of the office. Your doctor may use other tests to check for problems related to venous skin ulcers or to recheck the ulcer if it does not heal within a few weeks after starting treatment.

The best time to act on venous ulcers is when you first begin to notice the signs that one may be forming. This may include slight discoloration or a bruised appearance over a varicose vein. It is not wise to attempt to treat a venous ulcer on your own. However, until you can see your doctor for a full examination, you may do the following:

• Clean the wound as well as the tissue around it a few times a day.
• Use antibacterial soap and apply antibacterial ointment to the wound after cleansing the skin.
• Apply a dressing like a gauze pad over the ulcer to keep it free of debris.
• Wear compression stockings to help move blood out of the legs.

Do not put off seeing the doctor for your venous ulcer. Clinical treatment may vary significantly from the remedies you can perform at home.

In many situations, it isn't necessary to undergo comprehensive treatment for a venous ulcer. Our priority is to prevent infection and promote expedited healing as much as possible. In addition to debriding the wound, if needed and applying appropriate topical medication, your doctor may prescribe antibiotics for you to take to prevent infection systemically. Your doctor may also prescribe advanced wound care management such as the use of an antiseptic or antimicrobial. Depending on the severity of the ulcer, it may be necessary to consider skin grafting for optimal repair. This is one of many reasons why it is advantageous to receive prompt care for a small venous ulcer. 

In addition to treating the ulcer itself, your vein specialist can discuss the value of appropriate vein treatment. This is relevant for cases in which the venous ulcer is caused by varicose veins. In these instances, treating the vein can significantly reduce the chances of the venous ulcer returning at a later time.

One way to prevent venous ulcers is to be aware of your vein health. If you notice the signs of varicose veins and venous insufficiency, contact a vein specialist to discuss what you can do to keep your condition from worsening. Your doctor can also discuss how to spot the earliest signs of venous ulcers and how to determine when it is time to receive treatment for unhealthy veins. 

An active, healthy lifestyle is also a path toward prevention, not only for venous ulcers but for the conditions that can contribute to them. Taking a thirty-minute walk every day can be beneficial, as can standing up and moving around throughout the day if you tend to sit for long periods. Your doctor may also suggest that you take an aspirin a day to thin your blood and that you elevate your legs at some point every day.