Venous Stasis

Venous stasis dermatitis occurs when you have a problem with the veins, typically those located in your lower legs. When veins are weakened or damaged, this prevents blood from moving back to the heart like before. That leads to fluid and pressure building up, and some of the blood leaking out from your veins and into the skin. 

Also known as stasis dermatitis and venous eczema, the condition can cause swelling and dark or red patches to appear around the ankles. It can also lead to the appearance of a venous stasis ulcer if left untreated. This condition is much more common with individuals over the age of 50, and women are more likely to have venous stasis than men. Medical treatment is available to help with this condition, and there are also some self-care steps you can take on your own to prevent the problem from becoming worse. 

What are the Symptoms of Venous Stasis? 

The first sign that many people with venous stasis notice is swelling around their ankles. The swelling will sometimes get better with rest or overnight as you sleep, but it will usually come back the next day once you are back on your feet again. Another common symptom of this condition is the heaviness of the legs, especially as you walk or stand.

Additional symptoms of venous stasis include the following. 

• The skin that is around the ankle looks brownish, reddish, or yellow color.
• Varicose veins that are twisted or bulging start to form. These veins have a dark purple or blue tone. 
• The legs become painful or itching 
• Sores appear on the legs that crust over, ooze, or are scaly
• The skin around your ankles and shins becomes thicker

What is the Cause of Venous Stasis?

Several conditions can lead to venous stasis. It often affects those who already have circulation problems. When the veins do not work as they should, they don’t return the blood back to the heart.

The veins in the legs have a valve system that works one way. It is the valve’s job to push blood up through the legs. As we age, or as we develop other health conditions, the valves do not work the same way as they did in the past. That is a condition known as venous insufficiency. Sometimes, this will cause pressure to build up. That leads to not enough blood or oxygen reaching the skin. 

Some conditions can put you at a higher risk for developing venous stasis. These are: 

• Varicose veins
• Obesity
• High blood pressure
• Congestive heart failure
• Kidney failure 
• Blood clots
• Pregnancy
• Past surgeries or injuries to the legs
• Sitting or standing for long periods.
  

Treatment Options

Managing venous stasis involves a combination of approaches to alleviate symptoms, improve venous circulation, and prevent complications. Treatment strategies vary based on severity and individual factors. The following options are commonly used:

Conservative Measures:

Conservative measures focus on self-care and lifestyle modifications. Compression therapy, through stockings or bandages, promotes blood flow and reduces swelling. Elevating the legs above heart level helps reduce swelling. Regular exercise, such as walking or swimming, stimulates blood flow and strengthens calf muscles. Weight management reduces strain on the veins, and avoiding prolonged sitting or standing prevents blood pooling.

Medications:

Blood thinners may be prescribed to prevent clot formation and reduce the risk of DVT or PE. Topical medications containing heparin or corticosteroids alleviate inflammation and discomfort associated with venous stasis ulcers.

Procedures and Interventions:

Sclerotherapy involves injecting a solution into affected veins, causing them to scar and close. Endovenous laser treatment or radiofrequency ablation uses energy to heat and seal off problematic veins. For venous stasis ulcers, wound care management, including specialized treatments, promotes healing.

Surgical Intervention:

In severe cases, surgical removal (stripping) or tying off (ligation) of affected veins may be necessary. Vein bypass surgery redirects blood flow around deep vein obstructions in rare instances.

It's important to customize treatment plans to individual needs and consult a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and guidance. Alongside prescribed treatments, adopting a healthy lifestyle, including exercise, a balanced diet, and proper hygiene, contributes to the management and prevention of venous stasis.

Prevention Strategies

Preventing venous stasis and minimizing its impact on venous health can be achieved through the following strategies:

• Regular Physical Activity: Engage in regular exercise such as walking, jogging, swimming, or cycling to promote healthy blood circulation.

• Maintain a Healthy Weight: Strive to maintain a balanced diet and a healthy weight to reduce strain on the veins and improve venous function.

• Avoid Prolonged Sitting or Standing: Take breaks, elevate your legs when sitting, and shift your weight when standing to prevent blood pooling and encourage proper venous flow.

• Wearing Compression Stockings: Consider wearing compression stockings, especially if you have a sedentary lifestyle or a job that requires prolonged sitting or standing, as they assist venous return and reduce swelling.

• Practice Leg Exercises: Incorporate leg exercises into your routine to improve blood circulation, such as ankle pumps, leg lifts, and calf raises.

• Elevate Legs: When resting or sleeping, elevate your legs above heart level to reduce swelling and enhance blood flow.

• Taking Regular Breaks During Travel: During long-distance travel, take breaks to stretch your legs, move around, and wear compression stockings to prevent blood stagnation.

• Managing Chronic Conditions: Control chronic conditions like obesity, diabetes, and hypertension, as they increase the risk of venous stasis. Work with your healthcare provider to manage these conditions effectively.

• Avoiding Smoking: Quit smoking or avoid exposure to secondhand smoke, as smoking damages blood vessels and impairs circulation, posing a risk to venous health.

By implementing these preventive measures, you can significantly reduce the likelihood of developing venous stasis and maintain optimal venous health.

Get Help with Venous Stasis Dermatitis in Your Area 

If you are seeking assistance for Venous Stasis or other vein conditions in the Antioch, Oakland, or Castro Valley area, look no further than BASS Vein Center. Our team of experts is dedicated to providing top-quality care and treatment for vein-related issues. For more information and to schedule a consultation, contact us today. We are here to help you find relief and improve your venous health. Call now to learn more about our services and how we can assist you.