Venous Leg Ulcers
If you’re unsure how to care for your wound, think it may be infected, or simply need support, we’re here to help. Our mobile wound care team provides high-quality treatment right in your home. Keep reading to learn how venous ulcers form, what symptoms to watch for, and how to care for them. When you’re ready, reach out to schedule a visit with one of our skilled providers.
What Are Venous Leg Ulcers?
Venous leg ulcers are open wounds that develop when the veins in your legs have trouble sending blood back to your heart. This condition—called venous insufficiency—causes blood to pool in the lower legs, increasing pressure and damaging the skin. Over time, this can lead to tissue breakdown and wound formation. These ulcers most commonly appear around the ankles and may take weeks or months to heal without the proper care.
What Causes Venous Ulcers?
Venous ulcers are caused by poor vein function. When vein valves don’t work properly, blood flows backward and builds up in the legs. The resulting pressure stretches the veins and affects the surrounding tissue, making it harder for the skin to stay healthy and repair itself. Risk factors include a history of blood clots, varicose veins, obesity, limited mobility, or standing or sitting for long periods of time.
How Do You Know If You Have a Venous Ulcer?
Venous ulcers have some clear signs and symptoms. Early detection is important, and a medical exam is the best way to confirm the diagnosis. Some common indicators of a venous leg ulcer include:
A shallow wound near the ankle or lower leg
Swelling in the leg or foot
Skin discoloration (reddish-brown or dark patches)
Itching, burning, or aching near the ulcer
Thick, hardened skin around the wound
Irregular or uneven wound edges
Leaking or oozing clear or yellowish fluid
Skin that looks shiny, tight, or stretched
How Can You Care for a Venous Ulcer at Home?
Venous ulcers require consistent care and often take time to heal. Here are some of the ways to support recovery from home, under the guidance of your wound care provider:
Clean the Wound Gently– Use a mild cleanser as directed by your provider. Avoid scrubbing or soaking the area.
Apply Antibacterial Ointment– Use topical treatments as prescribed to help prevent infection and support healing.
Use Compression Therapy– Wear compression stockings or wraps to help blood flow return to the heart and reduce swelling.
Elevate the Leg– Raise the affected leg when resting to lower venous pressure and improve circulation.
Monitor for Changes– Check the wound daily for increased pain, swelling, or changes in color or drainage, and report concerns to your care team.
What Can Happen If a Venous Ulcer Is Left Untreated?
Without proper care, venous ulcers can lead to serious complications. These include:
Wound infection
Cellulitis or skin infections around the ulcer
Tissue damage and delayed healing
Chronic pain and swelling
Reduced mobility or discomfort while walking
Get Help for Venous Ulcers at Home
Accelerated Wound Care brings expert treatment for venous ulcers directly to your home. Our experienced team helps manage chronic and hard-to-heal wounds with personalized, compassionate care. If you're dealing with a slow-healing ulcer or want to prevent complications, contact us today to schedule an in-home visit and take the next step in your healing process.
Trusted Mobile Wound Care, Right at Your Door
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Accelerated Wound Care – Serving the Chicagoland Area
Phone: (844) 292-5708
Fax: (244) 361-2616
Email: Info@AWCIllinois.com
2720 S. River Rd., Suite 256
Des Plaines, IL, 60018