Can Varicose Veins Cause Leg Ulcers?

Jeffrey H. Miller, M.D.
6 days ago
3 min read

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.

A thumbnail with the title "Can Varicose Veins Cause Leg Ulcers?" with an image of a leg ulcer on an ankle.

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:

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.

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
Small visible veins around the ankle

These changes make the skin fragile and reduce the ability to heal properly.

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.

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. Here are some preventative measures you can take to keep your legs ulcer-free:

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

Stop Letting Your Legs Hold You Back

If you have restlessness, heaviness, aching, swelling, throbbing, or itchiness in your legs—or you notice varicose veins or spider veins—it's time to see a vein specialist.

Schedule an appointment today!