Signs and symptoms of venous ulcers

Most lower extremity ulcers are venous ulcers. These ulcers are due to weak valves
in the veins which create increased pressure in the leg tissues. They are associated
with edema, varicose veins, and scaly alligator-like skin. 

Chronic venous ulcers weep fluid and have irregular, shallow borders. Some patients
note that their socks or pant legs are wet from unwrapped wound discharge. 

Venous ulcers are generally located in the distal medial calf and ankle. Arterial pedal
pulses will be strong. But, don’t be fooled! The pulses may be difficult to find if the
patient has edema. 

Pain caused by venous ulcers is a dull, achy pain that is improved by elevating the
leg, as opposed to dangling, like in arterial blockages. 

Figure 3. Venous ulcers typically weep fluid and have irregular, shallow borders.

Signs and symptoms of diabetic ulcers

Diabetic ulcers are caused by hyperglycemia. Notably, most nontraumatic amputations
are due to diabetic ulcers. 

The borders of diabetic ulcers are usually raised and round. They are often located
on the bottom of the feet and are associated with skin cracks, blisters, and sores.
They appear red and warm in the earlier stages and then progress to eschar and
gangrene in the later stages. 

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