Ankle discoloration refers to a change of color occurring around your ankle. It may be accompanied by symptoms like swelling and easily marked flesh. Ankle discoloration Tinley Park is commonly a symptom of venous insufficiency disease. The discoloration is caused by hemosiderin, a pigment present in the iron in the blood. When you have venous disease, hemoglobin breaks down, forming hemosiderin deposits. If you do not treat your ankle discoloration, it can lead to severe conditions like venous leg ulcers or lipodermatosclerosis.
Causes
Ankle discoloration mainly results from venous insufficiency disease. Your veins have valves that allow blood to flow to your heart but prevent it from returning to the wrong path. If these valves are damaged or weak, blood can pool in your veins. This poor blood circulation can cause venous insufficiency or varicose veins. Venous insufficiency is more likely to happen as you age over forty years old.
The risk factors for venous insufficiency include obesity, blood clots, varicose veins, pregnancy, and smoking. Standing or sitting in one position for long periods and a family history of the condition can also increase your chances of developing venous insufficiency.
Treatment
Your doctor will treat your ankle discoloration depending on your symptoms, age, and medical history. These treatments include:
Compression stockings: Your doctor can recommend using compression stockings customized to fit your leg. These stockings exact pressure on your ankle veins stimulating blood to flow past the weak valves to your heart. Improved circulation will reduce pooling causing ankle discoloration. The socks also improve your pain and swelling. Sometimes they turn your skin dry and flaky; if this happens, visit your doctor.
Compression therapy works best when combined with lifestyle habits. These lifestyle changes include walking regularly and avoiding sitting or standing in one position for a prolonged period to help improve blood circulation. Elevating your legs while sitting can also encourage blood flow. Avoid tight clothes that can worsen your symptoms.
Radiofrequency ablation: This treatment technique is minimally invasive where your doctor inserts a catheter around the affected veins. The catheter uses radiofrequency energy to heat the veins, collapsing their walls and closing and sealing them. An ultrasound helps your doctor safely locate the affected veins. Radiofrequency is suitable if you have more prominent veins and is done under local anesthesia.
Sclerotherapy: This treatment involves your healthcare provider injecting a specific chemical solution directly into the affected veins. The solution makes the vein collapse, so it no longer carries blood. Blood will flow back to your heart through other healthy veins, and your body will gradually absorb the collapsed veins. You may need several sessions to achieve successful results. Your doctor will use sclerotherapy in advanced cases of ankle discoloration.
Ambulatory phlebectomy: This technique involves your doctor making small incisions over the affected vein. The doctor uses a phlebectomy hook to remove the damaged veins. It is mainly used on small veins.
After treatment, you can avoid wearing tight clothes, exercise regularly, and maintain a proper skincare routine for effective healing. Schedule an appointment at Vascular Specialists for ankle discoloration treatment to relieve your discomfort.
