Understanding Different Types of Leg Ulcers

When you have a sore on your leg that won’t heal, it could be what doctors call an ulcer. There are two main types of these sores – ones caused by problems with arteries (the blood vessels that bring blood to your legs) and ones caused by problems with veins (the blood vessels that take blood back to your heart). These sores might look similar, but they need different kinds of care to heal.

Artery ulcers usually hurt more at night or when you raise your feet up. They often appear on toes, heels, or other bony areas of your feet. These sores look deep and might have a gray or black color. The skin around them might feel cool and appear shiny. The pain from these sores can be very bad, and many people need to hang their feet down to feel better.

Vein ulcers are different. They usually show up near the ankles and don’t hurt as much. The skin around these sores often looks brown and feels warm. Your legs might feel better when you put your feet up. These sores can get better more quickly if you keep your legs raised and wear special socks that help blood flow better in your legs.

To learn more about leg ulcers or to get help with a sore that won’t heal, call our caring team at Pinnacle Vein and Vascular Center today at 1-888-553-VEIN (8346). Getting the right care early can help these sores heal better and keep them from coming back.

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