For a perfectly healthy person, wounds are supposed to heal within the expected time. Therefore, if your wounds take too long and are difficult to heal, you should take that as a sign that there is an issue in your body. Research shows that about 15% of people living with diabetes develop diabetic ulcers. Most of the time, you require professional help to help you manage and treat these conditions. Dr. Autumn Savage works at Wound Evolution and offers hyperbaric medicine and other treatment options to facilitate the healing of patient wounds. Book an appointment today for a consultation.
What are the causes of leg ulcers?
Leg ulcers are mostly caused by underlying medical conditions that affect the veins. According to statistics, venous disease accounts for approximately 67% of leg ulcers. The causes include:
- An arterial disease where arteries fail to function properly. This contributes to 15% of all leg ulcer conditions.
- A venous disease where veins fail to work
- Other health conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and diabetes. They make up about 5% of total illnesses.
The doctor will perform tests to know the cause of your leg ulcers before determining the best treatment option.
What will be the treatment options?
Treatment of venous leg ulcers works by controlling the pressure in the veins and treating the ulcer itself. The doctor could use either of the following:
Leg elevation: You will lower pressure in the leg by putting it in a higher position. It has to be in a position above your heart. Therefore, doctors will advise that you put your leg up on a sofa arm whenever you can to reduce this pressure.
Compression socks: The doctor may also prescribe compression bandages to keep low pressure inside the leg veins when standing up. You may also be provided with bandages that will control the pressure, the same as compression socks. You will keep using these measures even after healing to prevent a recurrence of ulcers. You can use a special stocking applicator if you find it challenging to put on compression socks.
Dressing: The nature and number of dressings used depend on your ulcers’ severity and state. They will also change as your condition gets better.
Surgery: Though rarely, ulcers may require surgery to treat. These are usually for the most resistant and largest ulcers. If it is caused by varicose veins, doctors will treat them first before healing the ulcers.
Recovery and prevention
Just as it takes a long time for ulcers to develop, they will also take a while to heal. However, leg ulcers heal in an average period of 4 months, but some take a little longer. The good news is that all conditions are treatable. Once you have healed, the doctor will advise that you lose weight, eat healthily, use creams to moisturize your skin, wear compression socks, and elevate your legs.
Experts at Wound Evolution evaluate your condition and develop the most appropriate treatment plan. This includes wound care and customizing your diet to facilitate healing. You will also get advice on the best way to care for your wound at home. Book an appointment today for consultation and treatment if you have leg ulcers, diabetic ulcers, and wounds that take too long to heal.