Lipodermatosclerosis is an inflammatory condition that usually affects the fat layer under the skin of the lower legs. There is no real consensus on the causes of the condition. The disease is diagnosed more frequently in individuals suffering from venous insufficiency or higher blood pressure in the veins. The illness can develop slowly over time and reach a chronic phase, or it can show up acutely without prior injury or illness.
The chronic presence of lipodermatosclerosis results in pain, as well as the thickening and hardening of the skin. Other possible symptoms include scarring, edema, fluid retention, varicose veins, and even ulcerations. Symptoms of the acute form of lipodermatosclerosis include tender, warm, and red legs. The skin can also thicken and become scabby. Although it’s not 100% certain, the common consensus in the medical community is that lipodermatosclerosis is probably a consequence of advanced venous insufficiency and excessive standing.
Treatment Options
Many individuals that are suffering from lipodermatosclerosis commonly have underlying venous conditions including venous insufficiency, varicose veins, and leaking valves. Because of this, treatment is often focused on resolving these underlying vein conditions.
Compression therapy is a focal point for many treatment options. Wearing compression bandages or compression socks is a common part of the treatment. Although some treatments can be done at home, always ask our healthcare professional before starting any kind of treatment on your own.
Compression Stockings are used to apply pressure to the affected area to improve the blood circulation. Compression socks, tight bandages or other elastic garments may be used to cover the legs.
A proper diet is essential to keeping our body healthy and avoiding any health-related issues. Lack of certain dietary supplements in your daily food can cause venous insufficiency and a number of other problems in the body. Exercise is a great solution to promoting healthy circulation in the body. Exercise can get the blood flowing through the affected areas. With a short and simple movement exercise, you may slow down the problem of swelling and pain.
Keeping your affected leg(s) elevated for a given amount of time on a daily basis can also help your body regulate proper blood flow. More involved treatment options are also available. Most commonly used to treat spider veins, sclerotherapy is performed by injecting the veins with a solution that causes inflammation, coagulation, and the narrowing of the blood vessel wall. As a result, the vein scars and the blood is forced to find it’s way through healthier capillaries and veins. The collapsed veins are then reabsorbed and metabolized by the body, and the treated veins begin to fade away.
For more information on lipodermatosclerosis and potential treatment options, make an appointment at DHR Health Vein Institute in Edinburg! Contact us today to schedule a consultation.
