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Moisturising. The skin around the ulcer is often dry. It is important to keep it in good condition using moisturising agents such as Aqueous cream or Diprobase.
Surgery. For the largest or very resistant ulcers either an operation on the veins or a skin graft may be necessary. If your ulcer is due to varicose veins then these may be treated, usually once the ulcer has healed.
5. How long will it take the ulcer to heal?
It has usually taken many years for the venous disease to cause the ulcers, so it is not surprising that the ulcers may take a fairly long tome to heal. Although most venous ulcers will heal up in 3-4 months, a small proportion will take considerably longer. Don't despair! Even in these resistant cases treatment is eventually successful in most cases.
6. How can I stop the ulcer coming back?
Once your ulcer is healed, it does not mean that your problems are over. Although the skin is intact the underlying problem with the veins remains and you must take precautions to prevent the ulcer recurring:
· wear compression stockings (or bandages in a few severe cases) at all times during the day.
· elevation of the legs whenever possible.
· keep the skin in good condition by using plenty of moisturising cream to prevent dryness.
· weight loss, fresh fruit, exercise and stopping smoking are also vital to help heal your ulcer as well as for your general health.
Patient information prepared by Mr S. Ashley MS, FRCS, Consultant Vascular Surgeon and The Vascular Surgical Society of Great Britain and Ireland
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