A venous leg ulcer can result in several complications, including loss of mobility and the risk of infection.

You may find it difficult and painful to move around if you have a venous leg ulcer. This immobility can make the ulcer worse, as blood pressure rises when you are not moving, aggravating your ulcer. Living with a venous leg ulcer can also be difficult. Ulcers can be painful and take a long time to heal, and you may find you need a lot of time off work.

For some people, the loss of independence and social isolation can cause emotional and psychological distress. You may be offered long-term psychological support if it is needed.

Infection

Venous leg ulcers can become infected, so it is important to look out for any signs of infection. These include swelling, redness, pus and increased pain. You may also have a fever and feel generally unwell.

If your venous leg ulcer becomes infected, it can be treated using antibiotics, such as flucloxacillin.

In rare cases, or if an infection is left untreated, the bacteria could spread and lead to other conditions such as:

• osteomyelitis – an infection of the nearby bone which causes fever, nausea and severe pain in the affected bone
• blood poisoning (septicaemia) – if you have blood poisoning, you may develop a fever and headaches, and have vomiting, diarrhoea and rapid breathing

If you have osteomyelitis or blood poisoning, you will need to be admitted to hospital in order to receive treatment with antibiotics, which are usually given intravenously (directly into your vein through a drip).

Malignant change

In a venous ulcer present for many months or years, a malignant tumour may arise. These have many different appearances, but if an ulcer gets worse and extends despite appropriate treatment, this diagnosis should be considered.

Your doctor will refer you to a hospital specialist for a biopsy so that the ulcer can be examined under a microscope. The treatment includes removal of the ulcer, including the malignant area. Sometimes skin grafting is necessary as part of this treatment.