Venous stasis dermatitis is a chronic skin condition that most often affects the lower legs and ankles. At Advanced Dermatology, our providers can diagnose and treat venous stasis dermatitis to relieve symptoms, improve skin health, and address the underlying circulation issues that contribute to the condition.
What is Venous Stasis Dermatitis?
Venous stasis dermatitis develops when circulation in the legs is compromised, leading to changes in the skin’s appearance and texture. People with venous stasis dermatitis may notice redness, brown discoloration, dryness, scaliness, or thickening of the skin. Itching, swelling, and oozing are also common.
What Causes Venous Stasis Dermatitis?
Venous stasis dermatitis occurs when fluid accumulates in the skin and deeper tissues of the lower legs. In most cases, this is caused by a condition where the valves in the leg veins fail to work properly. Normally, these one-way valves help push blood back up toward the heart, but when they become weakened or damaged (often due to varicose veins, prior blood clots, injury, or surgery), blood can pool in the legs.
The excess fluid causes the lower legs to become swollen and inflamed.
Treatments for Venous Stasis Dermatitis
There are several different treatment options for venous stasis dermatitis.
Lifestyle Measures for Venous Stasis Dermatitis
A few ways to decrease the pooled fluid in the lower legs is through elevation, exercise, and compression. This can mean raising your legs above heart level several times a day, wearing compression socks to improve circulation and reduce swelling, and walking or doing other movements to promote blood flow.
Topical Treatments for Venous Stasis Dermatitis
To treat venous stasis dermatitis, a doctor may prescribe topical corticosteroids to reduce symptoms and inflammation. These medications can help reduce itching, redness, and inflammation. In severe cases oral antibiotics, diuretics, and oral steroids may be needed as well. Sometimes, treatment by a vein specialist may reduce or eliminate stasis dermatitis.
Can I Prevent Venous Stasis Dermatitis?
While you may not be able to prevent venous stasis dermatitis entirely, you can lower your risk by protecting your vein health. Standing or sitting for long periods can allow blood to pool in the legs, while obesity places extra strain on the veins. Older age, reduced mobility, and medical conditions like heart failure, kidney disease, or lymphedema also increase the risk of developing the condition.
Maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, wearing compression stockings, and elevating your legs can all help reduce your chances of developing venous stasis dermatitis or experiencing flare-ups.
Schedule a Consultation Today
If you are struggling with venous stasis dermatitis, schedule a consultation with a dermatologist for the opportunity to explore the best treatment options for you. Contact us to book your appointment at one of our Chicagoland north shore locations in Lincolnshire or Glencoe.
