Venous ulcers do not heal quickly and are usually painful. People who have a family history of this condition are at a higher risk of developing these ulcers. Also, some lifestyle and health factors can increase one’s risk. When left untreated, they can lead to skin and bone infections. Because of this, the patient may require long-term medical care that a The Villages venous ulcers specialist can offer.
Typically, venous ulcers develop because of venous insufficiency, which occurs when blood is not sent back to the heart properly. The veins in the legs contain valves that keep the flow of blood toward the heart. Damaged valves associated with venous insufficiency will cause blood to pool in the veins, putting increased pressure on the leg.
As soon as venous ulcers develop, sufferers must seek medical care to avoid needing long-term wound care. Vein experts can diagnose ulcers and make sure the wound heals without recurrence. Also, they evaluate a person’s risk for these ulcers and recommend methods to minimize the potential of their wounds recurring. The following are factors that can increase one’s risk for developing venous ulcers:
Physical Characteristics
With age, veins can lose elasticity. Also, the valves in the veins can become weak over time. Such changes impact the ability of the veins to control the flow of blood and make a person susceptible to venous ulcers.
Vein Conditions
Certain conditions that cause the veins to change physically can increase a person’s risk of venous ulcers. Phlebitis, which is a vein inflammation, can block valves and weaken veins. Also, thrombosis can damage the valves that regulate blood flow.
Having varicose veins also increases one’s risk of ulcers since it increases pressure on the veins and impair function. Another risk factor is obesity due to the increased force exerted on the veins.
Lifestyle
People who lead an unhealthy lifestyle are at risk of developing venous ulcers. These include those who smoke, have diabetics, are hypertensive, obese, or overweight, and those whose work requires them to stand or sit for an extended period. Therefore, these people can reduce their risk by not smoking, managing their diabetes, controlling their blood pressure, losing weight, and taking frequent breaks from standing or standing throughout the day. Also, wearing compression stockings can prevent the pooling of blood in the legs.
If you want to know whether or not you are at risk of venous ulcers, see a vein specialist as soon as possible. Your specialist can also advise you on how to avoid the condition.
