Venous Leg Ulcer Treatment Specialist in Paramus, NJ

Venous leg ulcers occur due to problems with blood flow in the veins, particularly when oxygen-poor blood cannot properly return from the legs to the heart, causing it to pool. This results in increased pressure within the veins, which, along with damage to skin tissues, can lead to the formation of ulcers, primarily around the ankles.

Various diseases and medical conditions can affect the functioning of tiny valves in the veins that help keep blood circulating, contributing to the risk of developing a venous leg ulcer. These ulcers often present following minor injuries, especially in individuals who have circulation issues in their leg veins. This can lead to the injury taking a longer period to heal than is normal.

While venous ulcers can sometimes heal on their own, treatment is often necessary. Factors such as obesity, osteoarthritis, paralysis, and a history of leg operations or injuries can increase the risk of developing venous leg ulcers. This is because these factors may all potentially impair an individual’s ability to walk, affecting circulation in the leg veins by weakening calf muscles.

Venous leg ulcer pain is chronic, persisting over time due to the wound’s nature of not healing as expected. The pain associated with these ulcers, which can take longer than four to six weeks to heal, varies from sharp and throbbing to tenderness, aching, and soreness.

This change in pain presentation is influenced by the cause and severity of the ulcer, as well as the individual’s decision on whether to seek treatment. With appropriate treatment, however, the symptoms can often resolve after several months.

The condition also presents with additional symptoms such as swelling, itching, and the production of discharge, alongside the physical appearance of the ulcer, which may include hardened or discolored skin around it.

Venous leg ulcers can occur in almost anyone, however, certain factors heighten an individual’s risk of developing them. Individuals at risk of developing venous leg ulcers include those with a history of blood clots in the legs, varicose veins, leg fractures, or injuries.

Factors like aging, sedentary lifestyle, prolonged sitting or standing, obesity, pregnancy, smoking, and other underlying health conditions can increase susceptibility to venous leg ulcers. These ulcers are the most common form of leg ulcers and can develop due to a range of reasons, including minor injuries.

As individuals age, their risk increases due to the factors associated with aging and a potential history of conditions that contribute to a higher risk of ulcers. Those concerned about wound healing or at an elevated risk of venous leg ulcers should consult with a healthcare provider at Elysium Aesthetics and Vein Care for assessment and guidance.

The first-line treatment for venous leg ulcers involves cleaning and dressing the ulcer, along with the removal of any dead tissue or debris to facilitate healing. Compression therapy is often the next step in improving venous circulation and treating swelling. This can include the use of compression bandages or other forms of compression to encourage blood flow towards the heart.

The method and extent of compression are tailored to each patient’s needs and are monitored by healthcare providers to ensure an effective and customized treatment plan. Pain and associated symptoms begin to ease as the ulcer heals.

Patients are given detailed instructions on managing compression bandages and are encouraged to communicate with their provider if adjustments are needed to address discomfort or other symptoms like itching and swelling.

This comprehensive approach addresses the root cause of the venous leg ulcer and its associated symptoms, aiming to provide fast-acting and long-lasting relief.

Venous leg ulcer treatment is available at Elysium Aesthetics and Vein Care. For more information, contact us today or schedule an appointment online. Visit our clinic conveniently located at 1 Sears Drive, Suite 406 Paramus, NJ 07652. We serve clients from Paramus NJ, Westwood NJ, Bergenfield NJ, Ridgewood NJ, Fair Lawn NJ, Hackensack NJ, and surrounding areas.