Venous Stasis Dermatitis

If blood circulation in your legs veins is poor, you may be at an increased risk for developing venous stasis dermatitis, an uncomfortable skin condition. At Somerset Surgical Associates, LLC, the experienced medical providers offer diagnostic evaluations and customized treatment plans to address the itching, scaling, and open sores venous stasis dermatitis can cause. Call the office in Somerville, New Jersey, to schedule an evaluation of venous stasis dermatitis symptoms or book an appointment online today. 

What is venous stasis dermatitis?

Venous stasis dermatitis is a skin condition that develops due to venous insufficiency. Venous insufficiency occurs when the valves in the veins of your legs become weak and allow blood to flow backward.

As blood pools in the vein and fluids build up in your lower legs, pressure under the skin increases. That pressure prevents blood and oxygen from nourishing the skin and causes uncomfortable symptoms and changes in the appearance of your skin.

What are the symptoms of venous stasis dermatitis?

Symptoms of venous stasis dermatitis typically affect the lower legs and ankles. They vary from person to person and can include:

• Swelling
• Itching
• Scaling
• Dryness
• Thickened skin
• Skin discoloration

If left untreated, venous stasis dermatitis can cause swelling to move beyond the ankle and up into your calf. Your skin may become shiny and your risk of developing open, oozing sores increases. Sores can also lead to permanent scarring after they heal.

You should schedule a consultation at Somerset Surgical Associates, LLC, if you have symptoms of venous insufficiency, such as spider veins or varicose veins, and notice changes in the skin of your lower legs or feet.

How is venous stasis dermatitis treated?

To identify the underlying cause of venous stasis dermatitis, your Somerset Surgical Associates, LLC, provider may request ultrasound imaging to evaluate blood flow through your veins.

Based on the results of your testing, your provider can prescribe a topical corticosteroid cream to reduce inflammation. You may also need antibiotics to clear a skin infection.

The other goal of treating venous stasis dermatitis is to improve the blood circulation in your legs to protect your long-term skin health. Strategies to enhance blood flow may include:

• Wearing compression stockings
• Keeping legs elevated when resting
• Reducing salt intake
• Taking supplemental vitamin C

If you have varicose veins or spider veins due to venous insufficiency, Somerset Surgical Associates, LLC, offers Varithena® treatments, sclerotherapy, and other treatments to destroy damaged veins and improve the appearance of your legs.

Call Somerset Surgical Associates, LLC, to schedule a venous stasis dermatitis consultation or book an appointment online today.