Stasis dermatitisis a key in ofeczemacaused by poor blood flow through the veins.
Treatments to manage the symptoms vary from simple at-home therapies to surgical procedures.
This article will discuss what stasis dermatitis symptoms look like and its treatment options.
Reproduced with permission from © DermNet New Zealand and © Raimo Suhonenwww.dermnetnz.org2023.
It will also cover preventive measures.
Reproduced with permission from A DermNet New Zealand and A Raimo Suhonenwww.dermnetnz.org2023.
This poor blood return creates the skin symptoms associated with the condition.
Chronic venous insufficiencyis poor blood return within the veins.
There are one-way valves in venousblood vesselsthat help bring blood back to the heart.
As people age, these veins may not work as well.
This allows blood to stay in the legs.
Fluid can leak out of the vessels, causing swelling.
What Causes Symptoms?
Stasis dermatitis symptoms are the result of chronic venous insufficiency.
This condition is more common as people get older.
The pressure of the fluid from inside the skin causes stasis dermatitis symptoms.
How Does Stasis Dermatitis Look?
Stasis dermatitis can vary in appearance based on its severity.
It often appears on the lower legs, especially the inside of the ankle (medial malleolus).
However, it can also show up on the arms and upper legs.
The symptoms and stasis dermatitis include:
The condition can progress to skin thickening and changes in skin color.
The itching can cause a person to scratch their skin, which creates open wounds.
This increases the risk of infection and causes skin thickening and a leatherlike skin appearance.
Statis Dermatitis Scratching
Itchingis a common and very uncomfortable symptom resulting from stasis dermatitis.
Scratching may temporarily relieve the itching sensation but it can have harmful side effects, including skin injury.
Reversing Stasis Dermatitis: Whats Possible?
Stasis dermatitis is because of venous insufficiency, which cannot be reversed.
However, symptoms can be treated and appropriately managed.
Other pain relievers include Tylenol (acetaminophen) ortopical anesthetic creams.
One of the best ways to prevent flares is to wear compression stockings.
A study found that compression stockings help reduce recurrence by approximately 50%
Another preventive measure is vein ablation.
People who have this procedure can return to work within days.
Ways to Support Heart Health
Stasis dermatitis is the result of poor venous blood circulation.
Supporting the heart and circulatory system may improve symptoms of this condition.
Ways include:
Ongoing Monitoring to Avoid Infection
Skin infections are common in people with stasis dermatitis.
Signs of askin infectioninclude:
so you can notice adverse changes, examine the affected area of skin daily.
Let your healthcare provider know if you detect any signs of infection.
Your provider will be able to recommend the best treatment plan.
Summary
Stasis dermatitis is an eczema subtype that typically affects the feet and legs.
It causes itchy, red, and swollen areas that can become open wounds.
2023;24(2):275-286. doi:10.1007/s40257-022-00753-5
American Academy of Dermatology Association.Eczema types: Stasis dermatitis overview.
American Academy of Dermatology Association.Eczema types: Stasis dermatitis self-care.
University of California San Francisco Department of Surgery.Chronic venous insufficiency.
