When it comes to varicose eczema, it develops once skin changes due to increased pressure in the leg veins occur.
What are the indications?
The affected skin can turn red rapidly and it becomes flaky or scaly. Rust-colored or dirty brown patches of discoloration can also occur. There are also blisters or ulcers and the skin feels hard or taut. In addition, it can be itchy or painful.
These changes typically occur on the interior side of the calf. It starts right above or around the ankle. Hardening and tightening of the skin are evident in the lower region of the leg. This results to an alteration in the shape of the leg as an upside-down champagne bottle.
Scarring can develop in the late stages of the condition. Oftentimes, the healed ulcers will leave a star-shaped white mark.
Management of varicose eczema
As much as possible, try to avoid damaging the skin.
- Position the legs up on a footstool when sitting.
- Stay active by regularly walking.
- Avoid standing for extended periods of time.
- Make sure that the skin will not dry up by applying moisturizing creams regularly.
Steroids
In case the skin is significantly inflamed, the doctor might prescribe a topical steroid. Take note that topical steroids work by alleviating the skin inflammation. The steroid is applied as an ointment if the skin is excessively dry.
The topical steroids should be applied once a day. Simply dab on a small amount sparingly and evenly on areas that are inflamed.
Compression stockings
Compression stockings work by applying pressure from the outside to the veins. It helps squeeze blood in the veins back up in the legs. As an outcome, the pressure in the veins is lessened and prevents the leakage of blood into the surrounding tissues.
Prior to the use of these stockings, the individual should undergo a test to check if the circulation via the arteries of the legs is normal.