Different Manifestations of Skin Ulcers
There are different types of skin ulcers and while they may differ in how they were formed, they are all the same in that they are lesions or open sores on the skin. These open lesions are caused by a decreased blood supply to the area resulting in shedding of swollen and irritated skin tissue. Skin ulcers are rather disgusting with some exhibiting different colors due to infection as well as an occasional foul odor or even oozing of fluids, depending on how far advanced they are.
Common Causes
Trauma to the skin can certainly cause skin ulcers as well as extreme exposure to cold and hot temperatures or even corrosive agents. If you have blood circulation problems or even areas of the skin that experience prolonged rubbing, touch or some type of friction, these are other indicators and causes of a problem.
Bedsores aka pressure sores are one of the most common types of skin ulcers and they are caused by repeated friction of the skin over a bony area. When you think hard about it, many people who are bedridden get bedsores near their tailbone or on their hip, two bony areas that likely get laid down on quite a bit.
Several types of skin ulcers exist on the lower legs, all typically related to limited blood circulation, some as a result of diabetes and others due to venous problems or vascular disease. There is also a chance that an existing wound or trauma to the skin could become infected, causing skin ulcers.
Symptoms and Treatment
There are several stages of progression for most skin ulcers with the first stage being a reddish area that is aching or irritated. The next stage is typically the formation of an open sore or even a blister which is red and itchy. If the deterioration of the skin ulcers continue, the next step happens when the ulcer caves on itself, causing the tissue right below the skin to become damaged.
The final stage occurs when there is deep tissue damage and bones, tendons and muscle all become affected. It is imperative that skin ulcers never get to the last stage because they definitely cause some scar tissue.
Treating an ulcer starts at the basic levels of first aid like rinsing the wound, usually with salt water, and then following guidelines from the doctor to treat skin ulcers which include popping antibiotics on schedule. In addition, it is important to decrease any friction of the vulnerable areas and apply or orally take any medications the doctor prescribes.
