How can you tell the difference between arterial and venous insufficiency?

Although arterial and venous insufficiency share many of the same characteristics and symptoms, the two conditions are actually quite different. Venous insufficiency refers to a breakdown in the flow of blood in our veins, while arterial insufficiency stems from poor circulation in the arteries.

Is a pressure ulcer venous or arterial?

Venous skin ulcers are caused by poor circulation in the legs caused by damaged valves that prevent blood from flowing the wrong way, allowing blood to pool in the legs. Pressure ulcers, on the other hand, are caused by sustained pressure on an area of the body, which cuts off blood flow.

Do arterial ulcers have Slough?

Arterial ulcers This is as marked in small ulcers as in larger ulcers. Their edges are often sharply defined and the ulcer is ‘punched out’. The base is often covered with slough. This may deepen to expose tendons.

What does an arterial ulcer look like?

Arterial ulcers have a distinct “punched out” appearance and are typically circular with a red, yellow, or black coloration. They are usually extremely painful. Venous ulcers are often painless unless they are infected.

Are diabetic ulcers venous or arterial?

* Diabetic foot ulcers are often due to both arterial disease (involving the microcirculation as well as large vessels) and neuropathic disease.

What is the difference between peripheral arterial disease and peripheral venous disease?

The two diseases differ in several key ways. PAD means you have narrowed or blocked arteries — the vessels that carry oxygen-rich blood as it moves away from your heart to other parts of your body. PVD, on the other hand, refers to problems with veins — the vessels that bring your blood back to your heart.

Are diabetic ulcers arterial or venous?

What’s the difference between venous and arterial blood?

Arterial blood is the oxygenated blood in the circulatory system found in the pulmonary vein, the left chambers of the heart, and in the arteries. It is bright red in color, while venous blood is dark red in color (but looks purple through the translucent skin). It is the contralateral term to venous blood.