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Etiology: The Cause
and Cure for Eczema

Ingredients of
Eczema-Ltd III

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Eczema Types

Eczema Rashes & Treatment

Natural Treatment:
Lifestyle Changes

Eczema Treatments

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References

Causes of Stasis Eczema

Stasis eczema is a condition of the skin around the ankles and lower legs, which arises as a result of a tendency for varicose veins or ankle swelling - these changes are called "stasis." Stasis eczema is a rash of the lower legs, which is due to poor return of blood to the heart. Usually the inner lower leg is more involved than the outer lower leg. In the early stages the main changes are orange-brown discoloration of the skin. Later the skin surface becomes scaly, itchy, and develops other features of eczema. Weeping and infection are common in later stages.

Stasis eczema occurs in the middle to late years of life and appears on the lower legs. It is caused by poor circulation. It is also called varicose eczema. It affects the ankles, which become speckled, itchy, and inflamed. Stasis eczema is frequently treated with emollients and steroid creams. If untreated, an ulcer may develop.

Causes of Stasis Eczema

Normally during walking the leg muscles pump blood upwards and valves in the veins prevent pooling. A clot in the deep leg veins (deep venous thrombosis or DVT) or varicose veins may damage the valves. As a result back pressure may develop and cause fluid to collect in the tissues. The affected leg is usually swollen, particularly after prolonged standing and during hot weather. Eczema can arise as discrete patches or affect the entire leg. The affected skin is red and scaly, and may ooze, crust, and crack. It is frequently itchy.

Symptoms of Stasis Eczema

Stasis eczema is a form of dermatitis that commonly affects individuals who are 50 years of age and older. It develops as a result of poor circulation in the feet and ankles, which can cause excess fluid accumulation and, in turn, the skin becomes dry, red, scaly, itchy, and irritated, which is characteristic of stasis eczema. Repeated picking and scratching of the affected area can cause it to ooze, crust, or become thickened. Individuals who have heart failure, varicose veins, or who have had recent trauma may be at greater risk for developing stasis eczema.

Controlling Stasis Eczema

The treatment for stasis eczema is first aimed at controlling the skin surface changes but secondly (and of great importance) at controlling the underlying stasis. Stasis may require wearing surgical support stockings to give support to the underlying blood vessels. Sometimes the vessels need specialist assessment and surgical treatment.

To reduce the swelling in the legs:

  • Don't stand for long periods.
  • Take regular walks.
  • Elevate your feet when sitting: if your legs are swollen, they need to be above your hips to drain effectively.
  • Elevate the foot of your bed at night.