Venous leg ulcer treatment

Prevent, alleviate, or heal disease—naturally.

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How it works

Consult with our health coaches who will learn about your symptoms, habits, and goals.

Take personalized home health tests to discover potential root causes of any symptoms or conditions you may have.

Review your results in just days with our functional medicine doctors, nurses, and dietitians who will help you achieve optimal health.

Learn about Venous leg ulcer

Venous leg ulcers are open sores that usually develop on the inside of the leg, just above the ankle. They are the most common type of leg ulcer, accounting for over 80% of cases. These ulcers can be painful, cause significant discomfort, and may take several weeks to heal. In some cases, if not properly managed, they can recur, leading to chronic problems. Understanding and exploring natural treatments alongside conventional care can be essential in managing and healing venous leg ulcers effectively.

Causes

Venous leg ulcers are primarily caused by poor blood circulation in the lower limbs, a condition known as venous insufficiency. This occurs when the veins in the legs cannot pump enough blood back to the heart, leading to increased pressure in the veins that can eventually cause the skin to break open and form an ulcer. Factors contributing to venous insufficiency include age, obesity, pregnancy, prolonged standing, deep vein thrombosis, and a family history of venous problems.

Signs and symptoms

- Swelling around the ankle - Heavy feeling or ache in the affected leg - Flaky or itchy skin on the leg - A visible sore or open wound - Hardening or discoloration of the skin around the ulcer - In more severe cases, the development of a foul-smelling discharge

Diagnosing Venous leg ulcer

Diagnosing a venous leg ulcer typically involves a physical examination by a healthcare professional. They may also perform an ankle-brachial pressure index (ABPI) test to measure blood flow and pressure in the legs. In some cases, further tests like a Doppler ultrasound may be done to examine the veins' condition and determine the best course of treatment.

Prevention and natural treatment

Prevention and treatment through functional medicine focus on addressing the root causes of venous insufficiency and promoting the body's natural healing processes. Lifestyle changes are crucial and can significantly reduce the risk of developing venous leg ulcers. These include: - Diet: Adopting an anti-inflammatory diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats can improve circulation and reduce swelling. - Hydration: Staying well-hydrated helps maintain the health of the veins and encourage wound healing. - Exercise: Regular, gentle exercises like walking can improve blood flow in the legs. - Elevation: Elevating the legs above the heart several times a day can help reduce swelling and improve circulation. - Compression: Wearing compression stockings is a key treatment as they help squeeze the legs, promoting better blood flow. Natural treatments also focus on wound care and promoting healing through: - Use of honey-based dressings, which have natural antibacterial properties and promote healing. - Applying Aloe Vera gel directly on the ulcer or the surrounding area to soothe and heal the wound; it's known for its anti-inflammatory and hydrating properties. - The use of essential oils like lavender or chamomile in a carrier oil can also be gently applied around the wounds (not on open wounds) to reduce discomfort and swelling. These natural and functional medicine approaches complement standard care under the guidance of healthcare professionals. Personalized treatment plans that include controlling risk factors, proper wound care, and natural remedies can lead to effective healing and the prevention of recurrences. Managing venous leg ulcers holistically improves outcomes and enhances the quality of life for those affected.

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