Who Is at Risk of Developing Venous Ulcers?
Did you realize that venous ulcers affect millions of Americans? While the condition can affect anyone, certain groups of people are at a higher risk.
So, who is at risk of developing venous ulcers? Let’s take a look.
Age
Our skin gets thinner and less elastic as we age. This makes it more susceptible to damage, especially when we are exposed to warm temperatures or experience prolonged periods of sitting or standing.
When this happens, blood flow is restricted, and fluid can accumulate in the veins. This can eventually lead to venous ulcers, painful sores that typically occur on the leg. As the chance of acquiring the ailment rises, age is a significant risk factor for venous ulcers.
Pregnancy
Pregnancy can also be a deleterious risk factor for developing venous ulcers. This is due to increased pressure on the pelvic and leg veins during pregnancy. This pressure can cause the valves in the veins to become damaged, leading to the pooling of blood and eventual ulceration. Additionally, pregnancy can also lead to changes in hormone levels that can promote inflammation and weaken skin tissue.
While most venous ulcers will heal with time, pregnant women are at higher risk for developing severe complications from the condition. For this reason, it is vital for pregnant women to be aware of the signs and symptoms of venous ulcers and to seek medical treatment if they develop any problems.
Obesity
Obesity is an ailment that is characterized by an excess amount of body fat. It is a significant risk factor for many chronic diseases, such as heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. Obesity can also lead to venous ulcers. Obesity increases the risk of developing venous ulcers because it strains the veins.
Additionally, obesity can cause inflammation throughout the body, making it more difficult for wounds to heal. If you are obese, you must talk to your doctor about ways to reduce your risk of developing venous ulcers.
Smoking
Vein ulcers are more likely to occur in those who smoke. The nicotine in cigarettes constricts blood vessels and reduces blood flow. This can cause the valves in veins to become damaged and not work correctly. When blood doesn’t flow properly, it can pool in the vein and cause inflammation. An ulcer in the veins might develop as a result of this irritation.
Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)
Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is another risk factor for venous ulcers. DVT is when a blood clot forms in a deep vein, usually in the leg. This clot can block blood flow and cause swelling, pain, and redness. If the clot breaks free and travels to the lungs, it can be life-threatening. DVT is more common in people who smoke or have varicose veins. Varicose veins are enlarged veins that are often twisted and lumpy. They are caused by weak valves or walls in veins that allow blood to pool. Varicose veins are common in the legs and can be painful.
They are also a risk factor for venous ulcers because they can damage the valves in veins and cause inflammation. If you have any of these above-mentioned risk factors, you must talk to your doctor about ways to reduce the risk of developing a venous ulcer. Quitting smoking, treating DVT, and managing varicose veins can all help reduce risk.
References
- Millan, B. (2019). Venous Ulcers: Diagnosis and Treatment. American Family Physician, 100(5). https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31478635/
- Collins L;Seraj S. (2019). Diagnosis and treatment of venous ulcers. American Family Physician, 81(8). https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20387775/