Stasis Dermatitis: Understanding Causes and Symptoms
Stasis dermatitis is a skin condition that causes inflammation, itching, and sores on the lower legs. It occurs when blood pools in the veins of the legs due to poor circulation. This pooling of blood puts pressure on the skin, leading to the development of stasis dermatitis.
Causes:
The primary cause of stasis dermatitis is chronic venous insufficiency, a condition in which the veins in the legs have difficulty returning blood to the heart. This can be due to:
- Varicose veins
- Deep vein thrombosis (blood clots in the deep veins)
- Congestive heart failure
- Obesity
- Prolonged standing or sitting
Symptoms:
- Itching
- Redness
- Swelling
- Skin thickening
- Brown discoloration of the skin
- Skin ulcers (open sores)