Arterial Ulcers- Develop due to damage to arteries, causing lack of blood flow to tissues
Venous Ulcers –Damage to the veins caused by insufficient return of blood back to the heart
Signs & Symptoms
Arterial Ulcers
NO discharge
Deep
Weak or absent pulse
NO edema
Smooth, round sores
Perfect punch out appearance
NO bleeding
Cool to the touch Hairless skin
Appear tight
Red when dependent Pale when elevated
Venous Ulcers
Discharge
Shallow
Pulses present
Edema
Irregular borders
Inflammation
Itchy
Scabbing
Arterial Ulcers-usually found on feet, heels and toes
Venous Ulcers-usually found on the inside of the ankle
Risk Factors
Arterial Ulcers
Smoking
Diabetes
Atherosclerosis
Blocked Arteries
HTN
Trauma
Venous Ulcers
Varicose veins
Obesity
Clotting Disorder
Pregnancy
DVT
| Arterial Ulcer Venous Ulcer |
|---|
| Antibiotics Antibiotics Angioplasty Compression stockings Amputation Elevate leg Pain medications Bandaging |
| *may never fully heal *takes a long time to heal |