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Leg ulcer

A leg ulcer is a persistent sore that lasts longer than two weeks to recover. Usually, they form slightly above the ankle on the inside of the leg. 

Leg ulcer signs and symptoms

Depending on the particular cause, leg ulcer symptoms can change. 

Ulcers frequently cause pain. However, sometimes ulcers do not cause any pain. Ulcers can be a result of uncontrolled diabetes damaging the nerves. One of the leading causes of self-diagnosis and non-treatment is the absence of pain.

If you see any of the symptoms listed below, schedule a visit with your doctor:

  • Open wounds
  • Pus within the wounded area
  • The affected area is in agony
  • Expanding in the size of the wound
  • Leg swelling
  • Swollen veins
  • Widespread pain or heaviness in the legs 

How to identify leg ulcers

To diagnose and identify the precise cause of your leg ulcers, your doctor will do testing and a physical examination.

Leg ulcer

Your doctor can usually tell the difference between a leg ulcer and a simple sore by looking at it. To identify the best course of treatment, they’ll likely request a range of tests, such as:

  • MRI
  • CT scan
  • Ultrasonography for non-invasive vascular studies
  • X-rays 

How to cure venous leg ulcers

Most venous leg ulcers recover in 3 to 4 months if treated by healthcare. However, certain ulcers could take longer, and a tiny minority may never disappear.

Treatment typically entails:

  • Cleansing and bandaging the injury
  • Utilizing compression to increase the blood flow in the legs, such as with bandages or stockings

If the ulcer gets infected, antibiotics; however, they do not promote ulcer healing. 

Can venous leg ulcers be prevented?

In persons who are at risk, there are numerous ways to help prevent getting a venous leg ulcer.

These consist of the following:

  • Wearing compression socks
  • Losing weight if you’re overweight
  • Exercising regularly
  • When feasible, raise your leg
  • Quitting smoking

These precautions are crucial if you previously suffered from a leg ulcer because of the greater likelihood that you will experience the second one in the same leg within a few months or years.

Reviewed by – Dr. Priyanka, MBBS MD Microbiology
Page last reviewed: 04 October 2022