Poor vein circulation and leg ulcers (venous insufficiency)

Overview

Damaged vein valves let blood pool in the legs, which raises pressure and causes swelling, skin darkening, and sores near the ankles.

Venous ulcers heal slowly and often come back without compression.

Symptoms

Common signs:

• Swollen legs with skin changes
• Swollen ankles, feet, or both legs
• Bulging, twisted, or spider veins in the legs

Less common

• Leg sores
• Itching
• Leg cramps

When to get medical care

Causes

Weak valves.

Does it spread or run in families?

• It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.

Who is more likely to get it

• Older age

Possible complications

• Varicose veins

Diagnosis

An ultrasound.

Tests

Tests, if needed:

• Ultrasound:

Treatment

Help blood flow.

Self-care

• Compression stockings
• Raise legs
• Walk
• Raise legs above the heart for 30 minutes several times a day
• Moisturize the skin
• Protect legs from bumps

Prevention

To lower your risk or prevent problems:

• Compression stockings
• Walk daily
• Healthy weight

Which doctor treats this

• Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
• They may send you to a vascular specialist (blood vessel doctor).

Children, pregnancy, and older adults

• Older adults and people who stand all day: Higher risk.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

• If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
• Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
• Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
• Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

Outlook

Manageable.

Compression and leg raising help sores heal.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

Questions to ask

• What compression level should I wear?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Poor vein circulation and leg ulcers (venous insufficiency)