Understanding Skin Ulcers: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment

Understanding Skin Ulcers: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment

A skin ulcer is a wound or break in the skin that heals slowly or fails to heal altogether. These ulcers typically appear as small, round depressions with irregular edges. They may bleed, ooze, or become inflamed, and are most commonly found on the lower legs or feet.

Common Causes of Skin Ulcers

Skin ulcers can develop for various reasons, including:

• Infection: Bacterial or fungal infections can cause the skin to break down, leading to ulcers.
• Injury or Trauma: Physical damage to the skin may result in slow-healing wounds that become ulcers.
• Poor Blood Circulation: Conditions that affect blood flow, like peripheral artery disease, can make it difficult for wounds to heal, causing ulcers to form.
• Pressure: Prolonged pressure on an area of the skin, often from sitting or lying in one position for too long, can lead to pressure ulcers (also known as bedsores).
• Nerve Damage: Damage to nerves, such as in diabetic neuropathy, can reduce sensation in the feet, making it harder to notice wounds that could turn into ulcers.
• Nutritional Imbalances: A lack of essential nutrients can hinder the skin’s ability to repair itself, contributing to the formation of ulcers.

People with diabetes are particularly at risk of developing skin ulcers, especially on their feet, due to nerve damage caused by the condition.

How Are Skin Ulcers Treated?

Treatment for skin ulcers will vary depending on the underlying cause. In most cases, the following steps may be involved:

• Wound Care: You may be shown how to properly clean and dress the ulcer to promote healing and prevent infection.
• Anti-inflammatory Medication: Medications may be prescribed to reduce swelling and inflammation around the ulcer.
• Further Tests: If poor circulation is suspected, additional tests or scans may be recommended to assess the extent of the circulation issue.
• Compression Therapy: Wearing compression socks or bandages can help improve circulation in the legs and feet, which is crucial for healing ulcers caused by circulation problems.

If you are dealing with skin ulcers or are concerned about a wound that isn’t healing, the team at Ready Health Standish is here to provide expert care. Contact us to schedule an appointment and discuss your treatment options.

What is a skin ulcer?
A skin ulcer is an open sore or wound that forms on the skin and is slow to heal or fails to heal entirely. It typically appears as a small, round depression with irregular edges and may bleed, ooze, or become inflamed.

What causes skin ulcers?
Skin ulcers can be caused by several factors, including:

• Infections (bacterial or fungal)
• Injury or trauma to the skin
• Poor blood circulation, often from conditions like peripheral artery disease
• Pressure from prolonged immobility or sitting/lying in one position
• Nerve damage, especially in diabetic patients
• Nutritional imbalances, where a lack of essential vitamins and minerals affects skin health

Where do skin ulcers commonly occur?
Skin ulcers most commonly form on the lower legs or feet, though they can occur anywhere on the body, particularly in areas where circulation is poor or pressure is applied for extended periods.

How can I tell if I have a skin ulcer?
Skin ulcers typically appear as round or oval sores with rough edges. They may be painful, swollen, and red, and sometimes discharge fluid or blood. If the ulcer is not healing or becomes more painful, it's important to consult a healthcare professional.

Are people with diabetes more likely to develop skin ulcers?
Yes, individuals with diabetes are more prone to developing skin ulcers, especially on the feet. This is due to nerve damage (neuropathy), which reduces sensation and makes it harder for individuals to notice wounds that could become ulcers.

How are skin ulcers treated?
The treatment for skin ulcers depends on their underlying cause. Common treatments include:

• Proper wound care and dressing to prevent infection
• Anti-inflammatory medications to reduce swelling
• Compression socks or bandages to improve circulation (if circulation issues are present)
• In some cases, further tests (e.g., scans) may be recommended to assess circulation or identify infection

Can skin ulcers heal on their own?
In some cases, minor ulcers may heal with proper care. However, if left untreated or if the underlying cause is not addressed, ulcers can worsen. It’s important to seek medical advice for effective treatment and monitoring.

How can I prevent skin ulcers?
Preventing skin ulcers involves managing underlying health conditions, such as diabetes or circulatory issues, and taking care of the skin:

• Keep the skin clean and moisturised
• Avoid prolonged pressure on certain body parts (e.g., using cushions for sitting or lying for long periods)
• Wear proper footwear and check feet regularly if you have diabetes
• Maintain a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients to support skin health

When should I seek medical help for a skin ulcer?
If a skin ulcer is not healing, becomes more painful, shows signs of infection (such as increased redness, swelling, or pus), or if you have any concerns, it’s essential to seek medical advice immediately. A healthcare professional can help assess the ulcer and recommend the best treatment.

Can skin ulcers be serious?
Yes, if left untreated or poorly managed, skin ulcers can become infected and lead to more serious complications, such as sepsis or long-term tissue damage. Early intervention is key to preventing complications and promoting healing.