If leg swelling because of chronic venous insufficiency isn’t controlled, an open wound (ulcer) can form. Ulcers vary in size and shape. But they usually appear on the inside of the ankle.
Treating an ulcer
-
See your healthcare provider. Ulcers need frequent medical care. Special dressings may be applied. You may be given antibiotics to fight infection.
-
Your provider may prescribe medicines, such as aspirin or pentoxifylline, to help the ulcer heal.
-
Your provider may prescribe compression stockings to help with the swelling.
-
Raise (elevate) your legs often to reduce swelling. The ulcer needs oxygen-rich blood to heal. This blood can’t reach the ulcer until swelling is reduced.
When to call your healthcare provider
Call your healthcare provider right away if you have any of the following:
-
More pain
-
Fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher, or as directed by your provider
-
The area around the ulcer becomes red, sore, or both
-
The ulcer oozes discolored fluid or smells bad
-
Swelling increases suddenly or the dressing feels tight
Find a cardiac specialist
Because every beat matters, our cardiac doctors are dedicated to providing care like no other can.
Related Articles
PICC Line Care
A PICC line is a short-term tube that is used instead of a regular I.V. (intravenous) line. Read on to learn how to care for your PICC line at home.
Surgery for Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
During surgery for abdominal aortic aneurysm, the weakened aortic wall is replaced with a hollow man-made tube (a graft).
Understanding Chronic Venous Insufficiency
Problems with the veins in the legs may lead to chronic venous insufficiency (CVI). CVI means that there is a long-term problem with the veins not being able to pump blood back to your heart.
Smoking and Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD)
Smoking is the greatest single danger to the health of your arteries. It puts you at higher risk for peripheral arterial disease (PAD), which affects the arteries in your legs.
