Stasis dermatitis is sometimes called gravitational dermatitis, venous stasis dermatitis, venous eczema, or varicose eczema. According to the National Eczema Association, stasis dermatitis occurs mostly in people aged 50 years or older and is more common in women than men.
In this article, we look at the causes, risk factors, and symptoms of stasis dermatitis. We also cover the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of this condition.
Causes
Stasis dermatitis tends to develop in people with conditions that cause poor blood circulation in the legs, such as chronic venous insufficiency.
Chronic venous insufficiency is a condition in which the valves in the leg veins do not work correctly. As a result of the malfunctioning valves, blood can flow backward and pool in the lower legs. This pooling blood causes increased pressure and swelling in the veins, which can lead to the symptoms of stasis dermatitis.
Other conditions that can affect blood flow in the legs and feet and lead to stasis dermatitis include:
- DVT, which is a blood clot in the lower leg
- varicose veins, or enlarged and swollen veins
- injury to the lower leg
- any surgery that affects the veins in the lower leg
- congestive heart failure
Risk factors
Several known factors can increase a canadianpharmtabs.com person’s risk of developing stasis dermatitis, including:
- being female
- being over 50 years old
- being overweight or obese
- having any condition that affects blood circulation
- having high blood pressure
- having kidney disease
- giving birth
- standing or sitting for extended periods
- getting insufficient exercise
The early symptoms of stasis dermatitis primarily affect the lower legs and may include:
- irritated skin
- red, itchy, or swollen skin, particularly over any varicose veins
- a sensation of fullness, heaviness, or aching after extended periods of standing or walking
- swelling on the inside of the lower leg and ankle, particularly at the end of the day or after standing for prolonged periods
As stasis dermatitis progresses, these earlier symptoms can worsen. In addition, new symptoms can appear, including:
- swelling that spreads into the calves
- red or purple ulcers that may ooze or scab
- shiny, swollen skin
- itchy, dry, and cracked skin
In severe cases of stasis dermatitis, some areas of the lower leg may become intensely itchy, hardened, scaly, and prone to infection. In some people, the calves may shrink.
Diagnosis
A doctor will diagnose stasis dermatitis by asking about the person’s symptoms and medical history. Previous or current conditions that they should be aware of include:
- problems with the heart or circulation
- blood clots
- surgeries
- injuries to the lower legs
The doctor may then examine the skin on the lower legs to check for visual signs of stasis dermatitis. They may also order a Doppler ultrasound, which is a noninvasive test that uses sound waves to check the blood flow through blood vessels. Additional tests that check for heart function, blood pressure, and allergies may also be necessary.
Stasis dermatitis is not always preventable. However, making the following lifestyle changes can reduce the risk of developing stasis dermatitis or making it worse:
- reaching and maintaining a healthy weight
- getting enough exercise
- elevating the legs above the heart regularly when seated
- limiting sodium consumption
The diagnosis and treatment of any underlying conditions that can cause stasis dermatitis will also help reduce a person’s risk.
Outlook
Stasis dermatitis is a long-term condition that can cause a range of skin and circulation problems in the lower legs.
Treatment can help keep a person’s symptoms under control and prevent the condition from progressing. Stasis dermatitis can lead to severe complications if the individual does not receive treatment.
Anyone with symptoms of stasis dermatitis should see a doctor.
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