Overcoming Venous Insufficiency
Treatment for venous ulcers can yield wonderful results, as long as the patient follows the advice of his or her doctor and/or therapist. Venous ulcers occur because there is some underlying reason that has caused the circulation in the leg to become compromised. Whenever a patient has a venous ulcer of the leg, it is imperative that a complete medical investigation be done in order to determine any systemic problems, such as diabetes or heart disease, that could be the culprit.
For complete treatment for venous ulcers, a holistic approach is necessary. Cigarette smoking and excessive alcohol intake, which is often times is accompanied by poor nutrition, adversely affects healing and should be discouraged. Compression bandages and garments offer necessary gradient support and are the key to successful treatment of venous ulcers.
Effective Treatment for Venous Ulcers
Once a patient actually develops a leg ulcer, it is important to heal the wound before anything else is done. Doctors will usually prescribe an antibiotic to eliminate any infection, and a topical steroid is given to reduce irritation to the surrounding skin. The leg may be wrapped in a boot-like bandage that offers soothing medication to the skin and necessary compression.
The most important factor in preventing a recurrence of venous ulcers is making sure the patient wears compression stockings with gradient support. This will control swelling and correct any venous incompetence. Venous ulcers are painful and unsightly, but they can be prevented if the patient wears compression stockings, gets regular exercise, avoids excessive alcohol, and eats a nutritious diet.
