Arterial
ulcers result from an inadequate blood supply, which is almost always caused by
atherosclerosis, or fatty plaque build-up in the arteries. Cholesterol or other fatty plaques settle in
the arteries, which then causes the arteries to narrow and harden from the
build-up. The narrowing and hardening of
the arteries causes poor blood circulation.
If you have other underlying health conditions, such as diabetes and you
get something as simple as a small scratch, it may not heal properly due to the
compromised blood supply and could lead to the development of an ulcer.
You may
hear arterial ulcers referred to as “ischemic ulcers.” This means that once your arteries become
clogged, blood flow and the supply of nutrients are inadequate which causes
cells to die, which in turn damages the tissue creating an ulcer. Generally, the damaged tissue does not get
enough blood flow or an adequate supply of nutrients, which ultimately results
in a slower treatment time.
Following
are some signs, symptoms, and characteristics of an arterial ulcer:
o
Generally
results in a full thickness wound.
o
Ulcer
may or may not be painful.
o
If
the leg is dangled off the side of a bed or chair, it will turn red.
o
If
the leg is elevated it will turn pale and become cool to touch.
o
Client
may complain of pain at night that is relieved by lowering the leg below the
level of the heart.
o
Client
may prefer to sleep in a chair, which negatively impacts healing of the ulcer.
o
Located
mainly on outside or top of foot, but can occur anywhere on the lower leg or
foot (legs, ankles, toes, and between toes).
o
Lower
extremities are cool to touch.
o
Skin
is pale, looks shiny and tight, and is also thin.
o
Skin
around the wound area appears pale.
o
There
will be minimal to no hair growth on the lower extremities.
o
Minimal
drainage will be observed from an arterial ulcer.
Those
with poor circulation are at risk for ischemic ulcers. However, if you have diabetes, high blood
pressure, kidney failure, or if you smoke, you may be at an increased risk for
an ischemic ulcer. Diseases that cause
inflammation, such as lupus, may also increase your risk. Plus, lymphedema may increase your risk. Lymphedema causes fluid to build up in the
legs which could compromise adequate blood flow, which could lead to ischemia
of the affected area.
Treatment
of arterial ulcers will be based on your current health condition, the severity
of your ulcer(s), and also any underlying conditions will be taken into
consideration when your provider develops your treatment regimen. Following are a few goals that are generally
followed for treatment of an arterial ulcer:
o Providing adequate protection of the
surface of the skin
o Prevention of any new ulcers
o Monitoring for signs and symptoms of
infection
Prevention
of arterial ulcers is also being focused on more clearly; following are some
ways to reduce your risks of developing an arterial ulcer:
o
Quit
smoking.
o
Manage
your blood pressure.
o
Take
control of your cholesterol levels by making any necessary diet changes and
take all medications as prescribed.
o
Limit
intake of sodium.
o
Manage
any other health conditions you may be faced with, such as diabetes.
o
Maintain
a regular exercise regimen; even if you walk for 30 minutes a day, every little
bit counts.
o
If
you are overweight, work toward losing the excess pounds.
o
Take
time to observe your legs and feet daily for any changes in your skin, because
if you have a disease that causes neuropathy it may compromise your sense of
feeling.
o
Wear
shoes and socks that properly fit and do not walk barefoot.
o
Avoid
crossing your legs while sitting, and try not to sit or stand in one position
for too long.
o
Protect
your feet from cold temperatures.
o
Do
not wear compression stockings or wraps unless told to do so by your physician,
as they could restrict blood flow.
As
always, never hesitate to contact your provider with any changes you notice to
your body. The quicker you begin to
follow a treatment plan, the better your prognosis with your condition will be and
the less likely your lifestyle will be compromised. Total Home Health has a program that is right
for you. Our professional staff is ready
to participate in your plan of care and assist you with any or all parts of
your treatment plan that your provider suggests for your arterial ulcer.
