Posted in Category : Common Ailments | March 19, 2010

Ankle Ulcer

Ankle ulcers are commonly known as venous statis ulcers. Because they are very much a part and parcel of varicose veins, a positive diagnosis is usually delayed, thus rendering them quite stubborn and difficult to resolve. They are particularly painful, as they fester on the joint that has to carry a lot of weight. They are caused due to the general condition of varicose veins sometimes. Typically, patients who suffer from varicose veins also suffer from constant contraction and expansion of the skin, which leads to weakening of the skin from that area. This can cause cracks in the skin, which is already in poor shape, and lack of oxygen reaching the areas can prevent healing, thus also causing ulcers. Ulcers can also be caused due to skin that has become damaged and poor due to venous deficiency. Diagnosis of these ulcers usually comes in late. The symptoms typically include open and glaring wounds, which look like they are oozing constantly. Sometimes, they could also be characterized by red streaks riding up the leg. Poor blood flow to the feet due to the already existing condition of varicose veins can also lead to lack of feeling in the area. This could lead to the ulcers festering a lot and you being unable to feel the deterioration.

Venous Stasis Ulcer Treatment

Treatments for ulcers of this type would focus towards first taking care of the wound that has developed on the outside of the skin. This will also help to improve the condition of the skin. One of the best ways to heal ulcers of any kind is to make a paste with turmeric powder and clarified butter and apply this to your wound. Both of these products have amazing healing properties and will be instrumental in helping your ulcer to heal. If you are diagnosed with an infection, you will also have to use antibiotics. Once you are cured, your next step would be to focus on getting rid of the swelling. Gentle massages to improve blood circulation to the area would be helpful. If you can, you should always sleep with your legs elevated. This will help to encourage backward blood flow. This is helpful because the problem you are facing would be with blood flowing downwards. If you are unable to heal the wound at home, you are advised to go for medically supervised methods to do the same. If you there is no improvement within a few days, it is time to get help.

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