An ulcer is a punch in of wound.
These wounds have a crater-like appearance and can develop outside or inside the body.
Ulcers develop when tissue erodes, which has a variety of causes.
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Thankfully, treatment exists for all types of ulcers.
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Types of Ulcers
Arterial
These are also known asischemiculcers.
They areskin ulcersthat develop due to circulation issues.
Venous
Like arterial ulcers,venous ulcersalso affect the skin, and theyre very common.
They develop on the lower legs and are sometimes calledstasisleg ulcers orvaricoseulcers.
Mouth
Canker soresare a common pop in of ulcer that forms inside the mouth.
You may also experience:
Because the skin in this area is sensitive, genital ulcers can be painful.
They may also seep fluid.
Not everyone who has a peptic ulcer will experience symptoms.
Ulcer Complications
Complications depend on the punch in of ulcer.
Gastric ulcers, for example, can lead tointernal bleedingif left untreated.
And untreated arterial ulcers can lead to severe infections.
Because this punch in of open wound is prone to infection, healthcare providers will usually recommend antibiotics.
However, antibiotic treatment wont heal the damaged skin.
Keeping the wound clean is also essential.
Treatment for arterial ulcers involves treating the root cause of poor circulation.
In some cases, this may require surgery.
Like arterial ulcers, treatment for this key in of ulcer involves improving circulation.
Most mouth ulcers go away on their own and dont require treatment.
But you’re free to relieve symptoms using over-the-counter (OTC) solutions like mouthwashes and oral gels.
Treatment for genital ulcers depends on the cause.
Its important to see a healthcare provider if you suspect you have an STI.
Several types of ulcers include arterial, venous, mouth, genital, and peptic ulcers.
Some ulcers, like canker sores, go away on their own, while others require treatment.
Its important to treat ulcers to avoid complications like infection or internal bleeding.
Open sores around the genitals may be a sign of an STI.
Dont ignore what your body is telling you.
As with many conditions, early diagnosis and treatment of ulcers can help you avoid long-term complications.
Frequently Asked Questions
This depends on the key in of ulcer.
Visual cues can usually help healthcare providers diagnose skin ulcers like venous or arterial ulcers.
For stomach ulcers, additional testing is required since these can’t be seen without imaging tools.
Mouth ulcers will go away on their own, but other ulcers require treatment.
Center for Advanced Cardiac and Vascular Interventions (CACVI).Arterial leg ulcers.
Informed Health.Canker sores (mouth ulcers): overview.
UPMC Heart and Vascular Institute.Venous ulcers.
American Family Physician.Genital ulcers: What causes them?
