What causes stasis dermatitis?

Leg veins must move blood upward against gravity. When vein valves do not guide blood efficiently, blood can pool in the lower legs. The resulting pressure can push fluid and blood-cell products into surrounding tissue. Skin may become itchy, dry, scaly, swollen, or discoloured, especially around the ankles. The process can occur alongside varicose veins, a previous leg clot, limited movement, or a condition that makes swelling persist.

Scratching, dryness, and minor injuries can weaken the skin barrier. In more advanced cases, a sore may develop near the ankle. Stasis dermatitis is an inflammation caused by venous congestion; it is not the same as an infection, although broken skin can become infected.

Arrange an assessment if new ankle discolouration, swelling, or an itchy rash keeps returning. A clinician may examine circulation and look for the cause of swelling. Treatment often combines care for the underlying vein problem with measures that reduce fluid build-up, such as appropriate compression, leg elevation, regular walking, moisturiser, and prescribed anti-inflammatory treatment. Compression is not suitable for everyone, so it should be selected after circulation has been checked.

Use fragrance-free moisturiser on intact skin, avoid picking scales, and protect any sore from friction. Do not apply a compression garment over an open wound unless a clinician has advised you how to dress and protect it.

Seek urgent medical advice for rapidly increasing redness or warmth, worsening pain, pus, fever, or a wound that is spreading. Sudden one-sided leg swelling with pain, chest pain, or breathlessness needs emergency assessment because it may signal a blood-vessel problem. A persistent ulcer, bleeding varicose vein, or skin that becomes black should also be assessed without delay.

Could varicose veins or another vein problem be driving my rash? Is compression safe after checking my leg circulation? What dressing is suitable if the skin is broken? Which symptoms would mean I should seek urgent help?