Varicose Ulcers

A backflow of blood (reflux) in the veins may lead to sustained high pressure and can cause ulcers called varicose ulcers. When a crack or cut occurs in the skin of the leg, it may fail to heal because of poor blood flow. The injury can develop into an ulcer or shallow wound that may contain pus and become infected. The ulcers may last for months and even years. Special dressings and careful management of the wound may speed healing.

Varicose ulcers often develop at the ankles. They may be accompanied by swelling and red, itchy, scaly skin around the ulcer. Another cause of ulcers on the legs is poor blood flow in the arteries. This condition is associated with smoking and with medical disorders such as arteriosclerosis and hypertension. There are many other causes of ulcers. If you have an ulcer, see your dermatologist.