Venous stasis refers to loss of proper circulation of the veins in the legs that would normally carry blood back toward the heart. This can occur after an injury to the veins, which may result in blood clots. Other terms associated with this condition is superficial phlebitis or deep venous thrombosis where the damage occurs deeper within the leg. Swelling in the lower legs and ankle are an indication of poor circulation. It can be a sign of heart or kidney problems. It means your body is telling you something is wrong and needs to be addressed before worse things start to happen.
If this persists your legs can eventually develop open wounds or ulcers. They can become very difficult to deal with if not taken care of right away.
Approximately how long does a venous ulcer take to heal while using compression bandages?
It can take any where from two weeks to many years. Venous stasis ulcers can be a vicious condition by healing, scabbing and oozing until it heals over only to come back again when you least expect it. Sometimes during the healing process you can bump the scab and break it open. To prevent this you can wear elastic stockings to act as an armor covering the affected area.
Venous stasis ulcers that have lasted less than one year almost always heal completely. Ulcers that have been there longer than a year may not heal completely but may get smaller in size.
Use gauze pads and fabric adhesive bandages to control the fluids and keep the wound clean. You may also want to apply some antibiotic ointment to the wound before applying the bandage to help speed up the healing.
If your condition is severe you may need surgery to help eliminate the problem.
Preventing Venous Stasis
Vitamin E may help the ulcers from appearing.
Go walking to help your heart and circulatory system function at a higher level. This can help your circulation and get your legs back to normal. If the weather is not nice you can use a treadmill or just walk around your home. You can also get a mini trampoline to jump on which can help the circulation of your legs.
Elevate your feet when sleeping. You can get a foam block to place under your legs to help prevent stagnation of the blood in your legs at night. An adjustable bed might be an option if you can afford it.
What causes venous stasis leg ulcers?
Poor circulation, often caused by arteriosclerosis
Venous insufficiency (a failure of the valves in the veins of the leg that causes congestion and slowing of blood circulation in the veins)
Other disorders of clotting and circulation that may or may not be related to atherosclerosis
Diabetes
Renal (kidney) failure
Lymphedema (a buildup of fluid that causes swelling in the legs or feet)
Inflammatory diseases including vasculitis, lupus, scleroderma or other rheumatological conditions
Other medical conditions such as high cholesterol, heart disease, high blood pressure, sickle cell anemia, bowel disorders
History of smoking (either current or past)
Pressure caused by lying in one position for too long
Genetics (ulcers may be hereditary)
A malignancy (tumor or cancerous mass)
Infections
Certain medications