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Arterial ulcers are caused by insufficient oxygenated blood supply, leading to slow wound healing and inflammation. They are common on lower extremities and can be caused by chronic conditions such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Treatment involves addressing the ulcer and improving circulation.
Arterial ulcers are ulcers caused by an insufficient supply of freshly oxygenated blood which leads to slow wound healing and exposes the body to the risk of inflammation in wounds which become chronic instead of resolving. These ulcers are most commonly found on the lower extremities and are particularly common on the feet in patients who experience them. There are a number of conditions that can cause arterial ulcers, and people who are at an increased risk of developing them may get special guidance from their doctors so they can learn to identify such ulcers quickly.
When arteries don’t supply enough fresh blood, wounds have a harder time healing. A small cut or scrape may not heal, and damaged skin from protruding bones, loose shoes, or chafing clothing won’t heal. Likewise, if the nails are clipped too far back or a nail becomes ingrown, this can also cause a poorly healed lesion. Over time, this can develop into an arterial ulcer.
Arterial ulcers are characterized by areas of sunken, pitted tissue that can seep with wound exudate. The surrounding area may be yellow, brown, reddish, gray, or black. Because the ulcer often becomes inflamed or infected, it may be reddish, tender to the touch, and swollen. Over time, the ulcer can spread. Arterial ulcers are usually very painful. It is possible to have a single ulcer or multiple ulcers.
Causes of arterial ulcers can include chronic arterial insufficiency, diabetes, atherosclerosis, hypertension, and cardiovascular disease. Also known as ischemic ulcers, these ulcers are a cause for concern among these patients. They can also appear in apparently healthy patients as sometimes the signs of arterial blockage are not immediately apparent until the patient begins to develop secondary complications such as ulcers. In patients known to be at risk, prevention includes careful management of the patient’s chronic condition, along with promoting good circulation.
The management of arterial ulcers requires several approaches. First, the ulcer itself must be addressed. This may include giving antibiotics to fight infection, giving patients pain relief, and cleaning the wound to remove dead tissue. However, treatment will not necessarily promote healing or prevent a recurrence because the underlying cause is still present. Therefore, measures to improve circulation should also be taken. This may include wearing specialized clothing, prescribing medications, or performing surgery, depending on the nature of the condition leading to the ulcers developing.
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