Overview

A venous ulcer, commonly referred to as a venous stasis ulcer, is a type of wound that is characterised by a prolonged healing process, typically lasting several weeks or even months. This condition arises due to underlying issues with venous circulation, particularly venous insufficiency, where the veins struggle to efficiently return blood from the lower extremities back to the heart. 

Venous ulcers are most commonly found on the lower legs, especially near the ankle, and they often appear as irregularly shaped, shallow sores with a red or brownish colour. These ulcers can be accompanied by symptoms such as swelling, pain, and changes in skin pigmentation.

Causes

The human venous system contains small valves that facilitate the circulation of blood throughout the body. These valves function by opening and closing to propel blood toward the heart, effectively counteracting the force of gravity. In certain individuals, venous diseases may impair the proper functioning of these valves. Furthermore, other medical conditions, such as diabetes, can heighten the risk of developing leg and foot ulcers.

Symptoms

This condition may present with moderate pain and irregular, sloping edges wound.                                                                                                                                                                       Oedema resulting from increased hydrostatic pressure, which could contribute to lipodermatosclerosis.                                                                                                                           Superficial varicose veins, often referred to as "ankle flare".                                                                                                                                                                                                                        

Symptoms of Venous Ulcers

• Open sore: Usually located on the inner lower leg, above the ankle. The wound may be shallow with irregular edges.

• Swelling (oedema): The affected leg often appears swollen, particularly after prolonged periods of standing.

• Pain or aching: A dull, persistent ache or heaviness in the leg, which may worsen when standing or walking.

• Skin discolouration: The skin around the ulcer may appear brownish or reddish due to hemosiderin staining.

• Itching or burning: The area around the ulcer may feel itchy or irritated.

• Hard or thickened skin: The skin surrounding the ulcer may become hardened (lipodermatosclerosis).

• Foul-smelling discharge: The ulcer may ooze pus or fluid, especially if infected.

• Dry, scaly, or flaky skin: Often seen around the ulcer site.

• Slow healing: The wound may persist for weeks or months without proper treatment

Ayurvedic View

Sira vaha sroto dushti - due to aggaravated vata kar ahara(food) and activities, this aggravated vata enters into sira(blood vessel) vitiating rakta, flowing in sira(blood vessel) vitiates twak(skin),mamsa(muscle) leads to pidika (boils or rashes-cutaneous manifestation). This is ulcer formation due to a varicose vein. The Ayurveda way of approach is to correct the imbalance of dosha by Ayurvedic panchakarma treatment and local treatment done for healing the vruna(ulcer), improving circulation in blood vessels so as to prevent further complications, progression and recurrence of this disease.