Leg Ulcers in Older Adults: Early Signs, Treatment Options

If your loved one has a small cut or wound on their leg that just doesn't seem to heal, don’t ignore it. It could be an ulcer: an open wound that doesn’t heal normally.

What becomes an ulcer may initially look small, like a scrape or a bump that you probably wouldn't think twice about. Normally, these kinds of injuries heal within a week or two. But if your loved one has an underlying health condition that's affecting their circulation or slowing the healing process, the wound may not get better. In some cases, it can even become larger and chronic over time.

Leg ulcers are more common in elderly women. But regardless of your loved one’s gender, it's important not to ignore a wound that isn't healing as it should. With early treatment, you can help your loved one avoid infections and other health complications.

The signs of a leg ulcer can vary depending on what's causing it. Knowing what to look for can help you seek treatment before the wound becomes more difficult to manage.

If your loved one has venous leg ulcers, you’ll notice wounds just above their ankle or along the inside of the leg. You may also find that one of their legs looks swollen or feels tender when touched. 

Ulcerated skin in elderly may also be dry and itchy. You might even see brown or black discolouration. While some venous ulcers cause little discomfort, they can become painful if they become infected.

Some leg ulcer symptoms appear on the feet or lower legs. These usually mean that your loved one has arterial leg ulcers, which can make their foot or leg feel cold to the touch. In addition, you may notice their skin looking pale or bluish with some shine.

These ulcers can be very painful, especially at night while they’re lying in bed.

If you think your loved one may have a leg ulcer, it's important to arrange a medical assessment as soon as possible. Early treatment can improve healing and reduce the risk of complications.

Many venous leg ulcers and red legs in elderly respond well to compression therapy. With the right treatment and ongoing care from healthcare professionals, these ulcers may heal within around six months.

Your loved one’s treatment plan may include:

• Cleaning the wound
• Applying appropriate dressings
• Protecting the area while it heals.

A doctor may also recommend compression bandages or compression stockings to improve blood flow in the legs. If the ulcer becomes infected, antibiotics may be prescribed to treat the infection, although they won't heal the ulcer itself.

In most cases, a doctor may also recommend a treatment plan that includes:

• Keeping the skin around the ulcer well moisturised.
• Using different types of dressings as the wound progresses through each stage of healing.

Procedures such as bypass surgery or balloon angioplasty for arterial leg ulcers when improved blood flow is needed.

Treating the ulcer is only part of the process. You should also work with your loved one’s healthcare team to identify and manage the underlying cause. Otherwise, there's a greater chance that the ulcer will return after it has healed.

Note that you need to be extra vigilant if your loved one already has factors that increase their risk. They may be more likely to develop leg ulcers if they have conditions such as:

• Obesity
• Previous deep vein thrombosis (DVT)
• Varicose veins

Reduced mobility can also make it harder for blood to circulate properly through the legs, especially if they spend too much time sitting or lying down at home.