Can varicose veins cause stasis dermatitis?

Stasis dermatitis, also called varicose eczema, usually affects the lower legs and ankles. When venous valves do not move blood upward efficiently, pressure can rise and fluid can leak into nearby tissue. The skin may become swollen, itchy, dry, scaly, or reddish-brown, and it can feel tight or tender. Long-standing inflammation can weaken the skin barrier and make sores more likely. Similar-looking rashes can have other causes, so examination matters.

Book a clinical assessment for persistent lower-leg itching, colour change, swelling, or scaling, particularly over visible varicose veins. Gentle moisturising can protect dry skin, while scratching and harsh soaps can worsen irritation. Walking and leg movement may help venous return. Elevating the legs can ease swelling for some people. Compression may be useful for selected patients, but circulation should be checked and the garment fitted appropriately before use.

Get prompt care if the skin becomes hot, increasingly painful, rapidly red, or starts draining, or if you develop fever. Seek urgent assessment for a new open ulcer, heavy bleeding from a vein, or sudden one-sided swelling and pain. Emergency help is needed for chest pain, sudden breathlessness, coughing blood, or fainting.

Ask whether the rash is stasis dermatitis, whether venous ultrasound would clarify the cause, and how to protect the skin barrier. Discuss moisturisers, compression safety, ulcer prevention, and the symptoms that should trigger an urgent review.