A cut or sore on your leg should gradually heal over time. But when a wound lingers for weeks or even months, it may be more than a simple injury. One of the most common reasons for a non-healing leg wound is a venous ulcer, a condition linked to poor circulation in the veins of the lower legs. Recognizing the signs early can help you get the right treatment and prevent complications.
At Vein911® Vein Treatment Centers, patients with non-healing leg wounds receive compassionate, world-class care backed by groundbreaking research, award-winning expertise, and a team known for treating everyone like a friend. Driven by core values of excellence, transparency, and teamwork, Vein911® is trusted by athletes, celebrities, and everyday patients alike.
What Is a Venous Ulcer?
A venous ulcer is an open sore that forms when the veins in your legs struggle to return blood to the heart. When blood pools in the lower legs, pressure builds, damaging the surrounding skin. Eventually, even a minor scratch can break open and fail to heal properly.
Signs a Leg Wound May Be a Venous Ulcer
- The wound isn’t healing despite home care. If you’ve been cleaning, bandaging, and protecting the wound, but it still hasn’t improved after two to three weeks, poor circulation may be the reason.
- The sore is located near the ankle. Venous ulcers most commonly occur on the inner or outer ankle, where venous pressure is highest.
- You notice surrounding skin changes. The skin around the wound may appear dark, reddish-brown, thickened, or leathery. Some patients also develop itching, flaking, or swelling before the ulcer appears.
- The wound has irregular edges and drainage. Venous ulcers often have shallow, uneven borders and can produce clear or yellowish fluid. Although they may not be extremely painful, they can feel achy or uncomfortable.
- Your legs feel heavy or swollen. Chronic leg swelling is a hallmark of vein disease. If swelling worsens throughout the day and improves with leg elevation, it may be linked to venous insufficiency.
Get Expert, Compassionate Care for Painful Venous Ulcers in Tampa, FL
A vein specialist should always evaluate a non-healing wound. Without proper treatment, venous ulcers can grow larger, become infected, and significantly impact your mobility and quality of life. If a stubborn leg wound isn’t getting better, don’t wait. Call us at 813-761-2017 to schedule a consultation.
