Arterial ulcers

Arterial ulcers develop as the result of damage to the arteries due to lack of blood flow to tissue.Arterial ulcers often form on the outer side of the ankle, feet, heels, or toes. They can form in other areas, too. These ulcers are painful and have a “punched out” appearance.

Other symptoms or characteristics of arterial ulcers include:
    Red, yellow, or black sores.
    Deep wound.
    Tight, hairless skin.
    Leg pain at night.
    No bleeding.
    Affected area is cool or cold to touch from minimal blood circulation.
    Leg reddens when dangled and turns pale when elevated.




Diabetic foot ulcers almost always form on the soles of the feet, where skin is subject to constant pressure. Under the weight of the body, skin deteriorates and eventually becomes an open sore.

These ulcers frequently form underneath calluses and cannot be felt due to diabetic neuropathy.


Other signs of a foot ulcer include:
    Swelling, discoloration, and warmth around the wound.
    Foul-smelling discharge seeping from the wound.
    Pain and firmness when the wound is touched.
    Callused or thickened skin surrounding the ulcer.
    Fever and chills in advanced stages of foot ulcers.


Venous ulcers

Venous ulcers develop from damage to the veins caused by an insufficient return of blood back to the heart.Venous ulcers usually form below the knee and on the inner area of the ankle. There’s sometimes little or no discomfort, unless the ulcer is infected. In other cases, venous ulcers can be painful.

The affected area may also be accompanied by the following symptoms:
    Inflammation.
    Swelling.
    Aching.
    Itchy, hardened skin.
    Scabbing or flaking.
    Brown or black stained skin.
    Discharge.