A Leg ulcers appear as shallow holes or craters in the skin. They may be extremely painful and, in some cases, give off an unpleasant smell. It is not unusual for such ulcers to remain unhealed for many years.
Among conventional treatments, none stands out as being effective:
* Antibiotics can create bacterial resistance, leaving ulcers unhealed.
* If wounds fail to heal, surgery may be advised. But this can result in unsightly scars. * As contact sensitivity is usually the case in patients with leg ulcers, reactions to the ‘inert’ ingredients used in creams - lanolin, cetyl steryl alcohols, balsam of Peru and parabens - can make ulcers worse.
Venous ulcers are the most common type of leg ulcer, accounting for about 70 per cent of cases. Arterial and diabetic ulcers are also common. Although each involves a different mechanism, a common factor is often poor circulation.
Compression bandages, if fitted correctly, are one conventional approach that may help heal leg ulcers. Walking or any regular exercise will keep the calf muscle pumping blood efficiently. Stopping smoking and losing weight will also improve blood circulation. In addition
Elevate Legs and Increase Activity
The lower extremities should be elevated to decrease fluid buildup in the legs and feet, and discourage further ulcers from forming. According to MedlinePlus, legs should be positioned about the level of the heart. Frequent rest periods throughout the day are ideal. Still, gradual activity should also be added to a person’s daily routine to increase circulation to the leg ulcer. Walking, gardening or light stretching exercises aid in the leg ulcer healing. A patient should speak to a medical doctor before starting any exercise program, especially if he has lived a sedentary lifestyle.
Cleansing and Wound Care
Wound care and cleansing is important to track the wound’s healing process and to determine if treatment is effective. Mild soap and water should be used to wash the wound daily. According to the Cleveland Clinic, gentle cleansing removes dead skin tissue and drainage from the leg area. A mirror can be used if viewing the ulcers is difficult. Additional symptoms of further infection include redness, warmth and excess drainage. A doctor’s specific wound care guidelines should be followed; most medical professionals recommend a moist dressing or bandage change daily. Prescription ointments are often applied to the wounds.
Compression
A variety of compression treatments are recommended when leg ulcers are present, reports the Cleveland Clinic. Compression stockings or pantyhose are available for purchase at most medical supply stores and are also available in prescription strengths. Patients wear the stockings to reduce swelling in the foot and increase circulation which promotes healing to the leg ulcer. Stockings are placed onto the foot and rolled upwards to the knee before getting out of bed each morning. The stockings are worn throughout the day. Assistance may be required to put stockings on. According to Vein Directory, as of 2010, the average price for compression stockings ranges between $30 and $50.