What Causes Leg Ulcers

Leg ulcers are very common.  They are open sores or wounds that develop on the legs or feet and can be caused by a variety of factors. The most common causes of leg ulcers include:

1. Venous insufficiency: Over 60% of leg ulcers are due to problems with the veins.  Venous insufficiency is a condition in which the veins in the legs are unable to pump blood back to the heart effectively, leading to swelling, skin changes such as redness and dark discoloration, and ultimately ulceration.  Although the wounds may be triggered initially by a small injury to the skin or scratch, they may occur spontaneously due to underlying venous reflux or varicose vein disease.  Venous ulcers are a complication of venous insufficiency that should initially be managed by treatment of the underlying cause of the wound - the vein problem.

2. Arterial insufficiency: This is a condition also known as Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD) in which the arteries in the legs are unable to deliver enough oxygen and nutrients to the tissues, leading to poor healing and ulceration.

3. Diabetes: People with diabetes are at increased risk of developing leg ulcers due to nerve damage and poor circulation.  Many diabetics, however, also get venous ulcers.  It is a common misconception that all leg or ankle wounds in a diabetic patient are due to their diabetes.  Diabetics should be promptly evaluated for venous causes because the longer a wound is open, the higher the risk for a secondary infection.  Diabetics are very susceptible to infections in the legs.

4. Infection: Ulcers can develop as a result of bacterial, viral, or fungal infections.  Ulcers due to other causes can also become infected.  Whenever there is a break in the skin, there is a potential risk of infection.

5. Trauma: Injuries to the legs, such as cuts, bruises, or burns, can lead to the development of ulcers.  Small injuries should heal on their own.  If a small injury doesn’t heal or turns into a larger wound, there should be suspicion that there could be another issue.

6. Cancer: Certain types of skin cancer or tumors can cause ulceration on the legs or feet.

7. Autoimmune diseases: Conditions such as lupus and vasculitis can cause ulcers to develop on the legs.

Treatment for leg ulcers depends on the underlying cause and may include vein treatments, wound care, antibiotics, and compression therapy. If you have a leg ulcer, you should schedule an appointment at Aleman Vein Center as soon as possible.  If varicose veins or venous insufficiency is contributing to the ulcer, it is important to have the veins treated as soon as you can.  Early treatment results in faster healing time and a huge reduction in the risk that the wound could come back.

It is important to seek medical attention if you notice any signs of a leg ulcer, such as redness, swelling, pain, or drainage.