Is stasis ulcer a wound?

Typically the wound will be relatively painless, with any pain resulting from subsequent infection or edema. Often the entire leg will become swollen, and the skin will become more firm and reddish brown in color, otherwise known as stasis dermatitis.

How do you treat venous stasis wounds?

Evidence-based treatment options for venous ulcers include leg elevation, compression therapy, dressings, pentoxifylline, and aspirin therapy. Surgical management may be considered for ulcers that are large in size, of prolonged duration, or refractory to conservative measures.

What do venous stasis ulcers look like?

Commonly located on the ankle or calf, venous stasis ulcers are painful and red in color but may be covered with a yellow, fibrous tissue and an irregular border. Drainage and discharge are possible with venous stasis ulcers. This type of ulcer is common in patients with a history of leg swelling or varicose veins.

Is my venous ulcer healing?

Most venous leg ulcers heal within 3 to 4 months if they’re treated by a healthcare professional trained in compression therapy for leg ulcers. But some ulcers may take longer to heal, and a very small number never heal. Treatment usually involves: cleaning and dressing the wound.

What are the signs of venous stasis?

Edema in your feet, ankles, and legs is generally the earliest sign and symptom of venous stasis. Edema or swelling can also be thought of as water retention. Generally, the venous and lymphatic systems work together to remove excess water and molecules from your tissues.

What is the best treatment for venous ulcers?

The most common treatments to address a venous leg ulcer are compression socks and bandages. Compression socks can also be found at your local drugstore. These stockings gently compress the legs and narrow blood vessels, causing blood circulation to improve.

What are the characteristics of a venous ulcer?

A venous ulcer is typically shallow with irregular sloping edges whereas an arterial ulcer can be deep and has a ‘punched out’ appearance. Venous ulcers are typically ‘wet’ with a moderate to heavy exudate, whereas arterial ulcers are typically ‘dry’ and scabbed.

What is the difference between venous and arterial ulcers?

There are distinct differences between arterial and venous ulcers depending on their cause, location, pain, and severity. Among them, the key difference between arterial and venous ulcers is their cause. Arterial ulcers are due to ischemia while venous ulcers are due to stagnation of blood under pressure.