Can Varicose Veins Cause Leg Ulcers?

We know that varicose veins are those large, rope-like veins on your legs. But what are ulcers? And are they related to varicose veins?

We’re here to help you understand the connection between varicose veins and venous leg ulcers.

Miller Vein offers varicose vein treatment choices at all eight of our Michigan clinics.

Please note that some images referenced in the original article reflect skin changes prior to the development of a leg ulcer. If your skin shows similar changes, it’s time to schedule a consultation.

Still have questions? See varicose veins explained for the bigger picture.

What Are Varicose Veins?

Varicose veins occur when the valves inside the leg veins stop working properly. Instead of blood flowing smoothly back to the heart, it pools in the veins, causing them to stretch, twist, and bulge.

Over time, this increased pressure affects not just the veins, but also the surrounding skin and tissue.

What Are Leg Ulcers?

Venous leg ulcers (VLUs) fall under the umbrella term of “leg wounds.” Other types of leg wounds are arterial ulcers and pressure sores. They can arise due to poor circulation or diabetes as well. If not taken care of properly, it can take weeks or months for a leg wound to heal.

How Can Varicose Veins Cause Leg Ulcers?

Leg ulcers caused by vein disease are called venous ulcers. They usually develop near the ankle and can be slow to heal. Here’s how varicose veins can lead to them:

1. Increased Pressure in the Veins — When blood pools in the legs, pressure builds inside the veins. This pressure pushes fluid and substances into the surrounding skin, damaging it over time.
2. Skin Damage and Weakness — Long-standing vein problems can cause visible skin changes such as darkening or discoloration, itchy inflamed skin, hard or thickened skin, and small visible veins around the ankle. These changes make the skin fragile and reduce the ability to heal properly.
3. Poor Oxygen and Nutrient Delivery — Because blood flow is inefficient, the skin doesn’t receive enough oxygen and nutrients. Even a minor injury or scratch may fail to heal properly and eventually become an open sore.
4. Reduced Muscle and Ankle Function — Healthy leg muscles act like a pump, pushing blood upward when you walk. If ankle movement is limited or muscles are weak, blood flow worsens, further increasing pressure in the veins and the risk of ulcers.

Can I Prevent Venous Leg Ulcers Even If I Have Varicose Veins?

Absolutely. While the risk of developing venous leg ulcers is higher if you have varicose veins, there are ways to be proactive in the hopes of preventing them:

• Wear compression stockings
• Stay active to maintain leg muscle strength
• Maintain a healthy lifestyle
• Avoid smoking
• Elevate legs when resting
• See a medical professional if you notice skin changes

The Bottom Line

Varicose veins are more than those large, rope-like veins on your legs. When they are left untreated, they can damage the skin, impair circulation, and eventually lead to painful venous leg ulcers. Paying attention to early warning signs and taking preventative measures can make a big difference in preventing complications.

With a dedicated wound-care provider on site, Miller Vein is a great resource for information on venous leg ulcers, and we can provide expert treatment.

If you’re interested in learning more about Miller Vein’s treatment methods for leg ulcers, click here.

Reference

Johns Hopkins Medicine. (n.d.). Venous ulcers. https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/venous-ulcers