Stasis dermatitis, which is sometimes called venous stasis dermatitis, is a skin problem that occurs as a result of poor circulation. It most often affects the bottom part of the legs. It makes skin itchy and inflamed. It can also cause sores called ulcers. Knowing more about stasis dermatitis can help you recognize it in your elderly parent and get them the proper medical attention.
About Stasis Dermatitis
When a person has poor circulation, the veins have trouble transporting blood back to the heart. The valves that keep blood flowing in one direction fail to work the way they should, allowing blood to move backward. As a result, pressure builds up in the legs and not enough blood, and the oxygen it carries, reaches the skin.
Conditions that can lead to stasis dermatitis include:
- High blood pressure.
- Obesity.
- Heart conditions.
- Kidney failure.
- Varicose veins.
- Blood clots.
- A history of surgery in the area affected.
- Stasis dermatitis most often happens in people who are aged 50 or older.
Stasis Dermatitis Symptoms
According to WebMD, the first symptom most people usually experience is swollen ankles. The swelling might go down at night while they are sleeping but come back during the course of the day. Some other symptoms of stasis dermatitis are:
- The skin near the ankles may turn yellowish, reddish, or brown.
- Varicose veins appear. Varicose veins are veins that are gnarled in appearance, blue, and bulging.
- Skin may feel itchy.
- The older adult may experience pain in their legs.
- Sores may develop on the legs. They might look crusty or scaly, and they may ooze.
- The skin near the ankles and shins may get thicker.
- The hair on the ankles and shins might fall out.
Managing Stasis Dermatitis
Sometimes doctors recommend surgery to fix the circulation problems that cause stasis dermatitis. They may also suggest taking some steps at home, such as:
- Using compression stockings to help blood flow more easily and reduce swelling in the legs.
- Elevating the feet above the level of the heart for at least 15 minutes every two hours.
- Don’t stand in one place for a long time. Instead, walk around as often as possible.
Home care can assist your aging parent to take care of stasis dermatitis at home. Compression stockings can be very difficult to put on alone, especially if your parent’s hands don’t work well or they have trouble bending. A home care provider can assist them to roll the stockings up their legs and also remove them. In addition, a home care provider can help your parent to get comfortable while elevating their feet, positioning pillows under their legs and ensuring they have the things they need while they sit.
Sources
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/322896.php
https://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/eczema/venous-stasis-dermatitis#1
https://www.healthline.com/health/stasis-dermatitis-and-ulcers
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