A draining leg ulcer with swelling needs prompt assessment to identify venous disease, infection, lymphedema, heart or kidney problems, and arterial blood flow. Cover it with a clean absorbent dressing and elevate if comfortable, but do not start strong compression until circulation and contraindications have been evaluated.
Wash hands, gently cleanse as directed, cover the ulcer with a clean nonadherent absorbent dressing, and change it when saturated. Protect nearby skin from fluid with a clinician-recommended barrier. Do not apply peroxide, powders, or household remedies, and do not tightly wrap a leaking leg.
Venous ulcers often occur near the inner ankle with edema and skin discoloration, but arterial disease, diabetes, trauma, lymphedema, inflammatory disease, and infection can overlap. A clinician should examine pulses and may order ankle-brachial or toe-pressure testing and a venous ultrasound.
Compression is central to many venous ulcers, but its strength must match arterial perfusion, heart status, sensation, limb shape, and tolerance. Elevation above heart level can reduce venous swelling when comfortable and not medically restricted. Sudden one-sided swelling also requires evaluation for a blood clot.
Seek same-day care for rapidly increasing drainage, spreading redness, warmth, fever, severe pain, or a sudden swollen tender leg. Call 911 for chest pain, shortness of breath, fainting, confusion, or a suddenly cold, pale, numb foot.
Call 877-545-1300 or request a provider to begin care. Healix360 serves Southern California and Nevada and accepts Medicare Part B and most major insurance plans.