Understanding the Stages of Leg Ulcers

Leg ulcers can develop gradually and worsen if left untreated. Recognising the leg ulcers early stages is crucial for effective treatment and better long-term outcomes. Whether you’re noticing skin changes or seeking support for ongoing symptoms, this guide walks you through the different stages of leg ulcers and when to seek expert care.

What is a Leg Ulcer?

A leg ulcer is an open wound on the lower leg or foot that takes longer than six weeks to heal. The most common type is a venous leg ulcer, often caused by poor circulation and underlying vein conditions such as varicose veins.

When varicose veins develop due to faulty valves, blood can collect in the legs instead of flowing efficiently back to the heart. This sustained pressure over time weakens vein walls and damages the surrounding skin and tissue. As the condition progresses, it can lead to chronic inflammation and breakdown of the skin, eventually resulting in ulceration, particularly around the ankles.

Stages of a Venous Leg Ulcer

Stage 1 – Early Stages

You may notice:

• Swelling in the lower legs
• Dry, itchy, or tight-feeling skin
• Skin pigmentation
• Visible thread veins
• A feeling of heaviness or aching

These are early warning signs of venous insufficiency. Minor skin trauma may take longer to heal, increasing the risk of ulceration if left untreated.

Stage 2 – Progressing Skin Changes

Skin changes become more pronounced:

• More widespread pigmentation
• Thickening and hardening of the skin
• Thread veins may become more visible

At this stage, there’s a heightened risk of skin breakdown, particularly if there’s no medical intervention.

Stage 3 – Ulcer Formation

A shallow wound may begin to develop:

• Skin breaks down, often due to minor injury
• It can feel tender and may become painful
• Surrounding skin often shows signs of irritation

Prompt diagnosis and treatment is critical. Addressing the underlying venous condition with a treatment such as EVLA (Endovenous Laser Ablation) can help prevent ulcers from worsening.

Stage 4 – Chronic Ulceration

If left untreated, ulcers can persist and expand:

• The wound may deepen and become difficult to heal
• Pain may become persistent
• Regular dressing changes may be required
• There is an increased risk of infection or inflammation

Ulcers at this stage are less likely to heal spontaneously and should always be assessed by a vascular consultant. Chronic ulcers may significantly affect quality of life if not treated effectively.

When to Seek Medical Advice

Seek expert support if you notice:

• An open sore that hasn’t healed after six weeks
• Swelling, tenderness or fluid leakage
• Skin discolouration, thickening or pain
• Symptoms that interfere with walking or daily activities

The sooner a leg ulcer is diagnosed, the easier it is to treat and the better your outcome is likely to be.

At VeinCentre, we offer walk-in, walk-out laser vein treatments led by expert vascular consultants across our UK clinics. These procedures are designed to treat the root cause, not just the surface symptoms, giving you a better chance of long-term healing.

If you’re concerned about skin changes or non-healing wounds, our friendly team is here to help. Call us today on 01782 753960 for advice and support.