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Venous eczema of the lower legs

Eczema on swollen lower legs may develop because blood returns poorly through the veins. Skin itches, flakes and often changes colour around the ankles. Treatment addresses both skin and fluid build-up. A suddenly swollen, painful leg, rapidly spreading warm redness or a wound needs prompt assessment.

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  • Eczema on the lower legs may be linked to chronically poorly functioning leg veins and is then called stasis or venous eczema.
  • Fluid, increased pressure and inflammation mainly damage the skin around the ankles.
  • Itching, scales, swelling, brown discolouration and sometimes weeping patches often develop gradually and affect both legs.
  • Skin treatment alone is insufficient if venous pressure and swelling are not addressed.
  • Compression can be very effective, but its type and strength should be chosen after assessing arterial circulation and individual circumstances.
  • A leg ulcer, infection, contact allergy to wound products, thrombosis and heart, kidney or liver problems may coexist or be an alternative explanation.
  • Sudden swelling on one side, rapidly spreading painful redness or difficulty breathing are not an ordinary flare-up and need urgent help.

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