Poor blood circulation in the legs is a common health problem that can lead to fatigue, weakness, and pain. The legs are often affected by poor blood circulation due to multiple factors such as being overweight, inactivity, high cholesterol levels, smoking, high blood pressure, and diabetes. Poor circulation of blood in your legs can cause venous stasis dermatitis Somerville which is a skin ulcer that results from prolonged exposure to the external application of pressure.
Venous stasis dermatitis is common in people who spend a lot of time sitting. This condition occurs when there is an attack on the deeper layers of the skin, which leaves the skin thinner and weaker, consequently allowing bacteria from under the surface to penetrate through these weakened layers and cause pain.
The symptoms of venous stasis dermatitis can include:
- Itching
- Enlarged veins in your skin
- Papules or small bumps on your skin
- Swelling of the legs and ankles
- Burning or stinging in the leg
- Scaly patches on your scalp.
Key causes for venous stasis dermatitis?
Diabetes
Venous stasis dermatitis often occurs in people who have diabetes. In addition to high blood pressure, diabetes can cause other conditions that can lead to venous stasis dermatitis, such as poor circulation, nerve damage, or infections. The most common symptom of diabetes is unusual thirst or frequent urination, but you may also experience itching or burning in your skin after sitting for long periods or when exercising vigorously.
Kidney disease
Kidney disease can cause venous stasis dermatitis by restricting the flow of blood through small veins in your body. If you have kidney disease and develop venous stasis dermatitis, it’s important to see your doctor so they can determine the right treatment for your condition.
Obesity
Obesity is a major risk factor for venous stasis dermatitis and is a condition that can be prevented. The first step in treating this condition is to lose weight. By losing weight, you will lower your blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and blood sugar levels. These factors are all related to the development of venous stasis dermatitis.
How venous stasis dermatitis is treated
Treatment of venous stasis dermatitis depends on the severity of the condition. Venous stasis dermatitis is treated with the following:
Compression therapy
Compression therapy reduces the swelling and bruising of venous stasis dermatitis, improves circulation, and eases pain. This treatment is usually recommended in conjunction with other treatments, including icing, compression stockings, and other medications.
Topical therapy
Treatment with topical medications is also effective in treating venous stasis dermatitis. Topical gels, creams, and lotions are available, which contain ingredients like hydrocortisone, tretinoin, or retinoids. These ingredients help reduce inflammation and speed up the healing process of venous stasis dermatitis.
Laser treatment
Non-invasive laser treatment for venous stasis dermatitis can be used, but only after you have tried all other forms of treatment first. This type of treatment helps reduce inflammation, speeding up the healing process of this condition, and relieves itching and associated pain.
If you are experiencing the symptoms of venous stasis dermatitis, it’s crucial to see your doctor immediately. Treatment can reduce the pain and inflammation of this condition. For a consultation, reach out to Somerset Surgical Associates, LLC.
