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Venous Ulcer Symptoms

A venous ulcer, typically referred to as a venous skin ulcer, is essentially a wound that develops on the skin due to a vein that is no longer able to properly transport blood to the heart. You will usually find this wound forming on the lower leg, somewhere between the calf and ankle. However, there are other symptoms of a venous ulcer that can indicate the onset of this condition.

  1. Discoloration

    • One the first symptoms of a venous ulcer will be a discoloration to the affected area. This will usually appear as a fairly dark purplish to reddish change to the color of the skin.

    Texture

    • Often accompanying this discoloration will be a change in the texture of the area. The skin may begin to look rather dry and feel noticeably firm to the touch. It may also have a slightly itchy sensation that may come and go.

    Discharge

    • This same area of the lower leg may also begin to seep a virtually clear discharge or fluid. When left on the skin, it may begin to form what appears to be golden scabs. However, this is merely the fluid that has dried.

    Pain

    • This can be a dull to throbbing sensation that will come and go much like the itchiness.

    Swelling

    • Sometimes a person with a venous ulcer will suffer a symptom that is best described as a swelling of the lower leg (the one that is affected with the condition). This will typically happen after on a day on your feet, and may be accompanied by an overall discomfort in the area.

    Wound

    • When left untreated, this condition will eventually form an actual wound that will be open and susceptible to infection.

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