What are Skin Ulcers?
Skin ulcer is an open sore on the skin or mucous membrane accompanied by the disintegration of tissue. Often, skin ulcers affect the legs. Up to 3 in 1000 people have active leg ulcers and are more common in older people. In the early stages, you’ll notice skin discoloration in the area. It might look red and feel warm. If you have a darker skin tone, it may look shiny or blue. Other symptoms depend on the type and severity of the ulcer. You may notice swelling, tenderness, itchiness or pain and yellowish green pus that can be due to an infection.
Cause
Can be due to poor blood flow which is necessary for wound healing. Poor blood circulation is mainly due to underlying medical conditions such as Diabetes, Atherosclerosis, or Venus insufficiency.
Management
- Minimize smoking habit
- Increase physical exercise
- Perform leg elevations
- Wear compression socks
- Mix 1 tablespoon honey with 1 teaspoon turmeric powder and a few drops of saline solution. Apply the paste on the skin ulcer then rinse with warm water after 10 to 15 minutes
Treatment
- Apply a dressing over the area to keep the wound clean, promote skin healing, and prevent infections
- If an infection occurs, apply fucidic acid ointment in the morning and evening for 10 days
- In case of pain, take 1-2 tablets of paracetamol every 6 hours