Exudate

A venous leg ulcer is defined as a break in the skin of the leg that takes more than 4 to 6 weeks to heal. [1]

Venous leg ulcers occur because of underlying chronic venous insufficiency (CVI).[2]

This is a condition in which poor circulation significantly increases the pressure on the venous system. Continuous high pressure in the veins can lead to damage to the blood vessels in the skin. This damage makes the skin more fragile and susceptible to breaking after minor injuries such as a small scratch or shearing force.[3]

Most leg ulcers, except for those caused by direct trauma or minor injury, can take months, if not years, to develop into a wound. They are most common on the inside of the leg, just above the ankle.

It can be a long-term and recurring condition that causes discomfort, pain, infection, reduced mobility, malodour, isolation, and emotional distress.

In the UK, figures reveal that around 1 in 500 people will be affected by venous leg ulcers. The risk of developing venous leg ulcers only increases as we age. The latest statistics show that around 1 in 50 people over the age of 80 has a leg ulcer.[5]

Venous leg ulcers present as open wounds on the lower limbs. Their appearance and severity will vary depending on how long you have had the ulcer and your general health. There are some other signs that are indicative of a venous leg ulcer:

• Aching or a feeling of heaviness in the lower limbs
• Swollen ankles
• Varicose veins
• Discolouration in the area around the ulcer
• Itchiness
• Changes to skin (i.e., hardened or tauter)
• Fluid and slough weeping from the wound edges