Gravitational Eczema

This type of eczema is common later in life, particularly in women. If you have poor circulation, have had a blood clot in your legs, have varicose veins or are overweight you are at risk of developing gravitational eczema (also known as varicose or stasis eczema).

Poor circulation means that the blood moves less well up our veins towards the heart. The resulting increase in pressure weakens the vein walls causing fluid to pool in the lower legs making the ankles swell. Blood may then leak through the very small vessels in the legs, causing a dark red or brown patch under the skin. Over a period of time the skin becomes very thin and fragile on the lower legs and can easily break down, leading to an ulcer.

When gravitational eczema is severe the skin can have weeping, crusted areas which can quickly get bigger and become a varicose leg ulcer.

A leg ulcer is a small hole in the skin which can deepen and widen and become very sore. Because of the nature of the wound it can easily become infected and can be difficult to heal especially in those with poor circulation.