Ischaemic Ulcers

Wound Care Series

What is it?

An ischaemic ulcer is a wound that can happen when there is poor blood flow in your legs.

Who is at risk?

• People with diabetes, high blood pressure or obesity.

• Smokers.

What causes it?

It is caused by insuff icient blood flow to the leg due to blocked or narrowing of the arteries.

The poor blood flow causes the cells to die, resulting in ulcer formation. Once an ulcer is formed, the lack of blood flow makes it harder to heal.

What are the signs?

• Skin on the leg appears shiny, tight, dry and hairless.

• Dark red, yellow, gray or black sores.

How do I look after it?

• Keep the wound clean and apply recommended wound dressing to prevent infection.

• Do not wear a compression stocking on your affected leg.

• Do not apply bandage on your affected leg.

• Do not raise the aff ected leg when sitting or lying down. This reduces blood flow to the legs.

• Apply skin moisturiser to both feet daily.

• Check your feet daily for any redness, swelling or bleeding.

• Contact your doctor or podiatrist if there are signs of infection or if your condition get worse.

What else can I do?

Staying healthy will help your wound heal faster:

• Keep your blood sugar levels under control.

• Manage your blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

• Eat a healthy diet and get plenty of sleep at night.

• Quit smoking as it can block your arteries.

• Wear soft and comfortable shoes.

• If your ulcer does not heal well, you may need an operation.

Yishun Health is a network of medical institutions and health facilities of the National Healthcare Group in the north of Singapore. It comprises Khoo Teck Puat Hospital, Yishun Community Hospital and community extensions such as Admiralty Medical Centre and Wellness Kampung. Khoo Teck Puat Hospital • (65) 6555 8000 • www.ktph.com.sg Yishun Community Hospital • (65) 6807 8800 • www.yishuncommunityhospital.com.sg