Stasis dermatitis is a skin condition that commonly affects the lower legs. It occurs when blood does not flow properly through the veins in the leg. Poor circulation over time can cause swelling, itching, changes in skin colour and sometimes open sores.
It may initially appear as a simple rash or dry skin. That’s why many people disregard it at first, If the cause of stasis dermatitis is not treated, it can worsen.
It is often linked to chronic venous insufficiency. This means that the veins in the legs are not returning blood to the heart as well as they should. Healthy veins have little valves that assist blood flow upwards. If the valves are damaged or weak, blood can pool in the lower legs. This causes pressure, swelling and irritation of the skin. This pooling of blood can lead to skin that is swollen and inflamed, most often in the lower legs, the Cleveland Clinic says.
One of the first signs is swelling around the ankles or lower leg. The skin may also turn red, brown, or darker than usual. The American Academy of Dermatology states that swelling and slight discolouration of the skin, especially over varicose veins, are often the first signs of stasis dermatitis.
The skin may feel itchy, dry, scaly or sensitive. Some people feel tightness or heaviness in their legs, particularly when standing for long periods. Elevating your legs may relieve the discomfort. Elevation promotes blood flow back to the heart.
If the condition continues the skin can become thicker and harder. It may also feel rough or look darker. In more serious cases, the skin can crack, leak fluid, or develop open sores called ulcers. They often show up around the ankles and can take a long time to heal.
This is why early care is important.
Stasis dermatitis is not contagious. “You cannot buy it from somebody else.” It’s usually a long term skin problem related to circulation. Varicose eczema, stasis or venous eczema, is a long-term skin condition that usually affects the lower legs and is often associated with varicose veins, says the NHS.
There are a number of things that may increase your chances of getting it. These include varicose veins, older age, obesity, high blood pressure, a history of blood clots, leg injuries, heart problems, kidney disease, and sitting or standing for long periods without moving.
Women who’ve had several pregnancies might also be at increased risk, because pregnancy can place additional pressure on the veins in the legs.
The good news is that stasis dermatitis is often manageable, particularly if it is caught early. Treatment is usually directed at improving circulation and protecting the skin.
Doctors may recommend elevating legs during the day, staying active, regular walking and avoiding prolonged standing or sitting. Compression stockings are also often used to help reduce swelling and provide vein support. But they should be used with medical guidance if anyone has other circulation problems.
Skin care is also very important too. Mild, unscented cleansers and regular moisturising can help dry and irritated skin. JAMA Dermatology recommends gentle cleansers, and moisturising with creams or ointments such as petrolatum. Avoid some topical antibiotics that can irritate skin.
Doctors can prescribe medicated creams to cut down on the inflammation and itching. Antibiotics may be needed if there is an infection. If ulcers develop, special wound care may be needed.
You should see a doctor if you have: Swelling Changes in skin colour Constant itching Pain Leaking fluid Open sores Warmth Pus Fever Spreading redness This may be a sign that the condition is worsening or that there may be an infection.
The diagnosis is usually made on physical examination. A doctor can also do a venous Doppler ultrasound to look at the flow of blood in the legs and find problems with the veins.
Stasis dermatitis can be frustrating because it tends to develop slowly and can recur if circulation problems continue. But daily habits can help. Regular walks, keeping your weight down, resting with your legs raised, cutting down on too much salt and following your doctor’s advice can help reduce swelling and protect the skin.
The most important thing is not to neglect lower legs changes.
Dry, itchy, and discoloured skin around the ankles may seem like a minor annoyance at first, but it could be an early warning sign of poor circulation. Early treatment may help prevent pain, infection and long-term damage to the skin.
Stasis dermatitis is not a cosmetic skin problem, it is a medical problem. Many people can control symptoms, protect their skin, and lower the risk of serious complications with the right care.