Stasis Dermatitis

Stasis dermatitis is skin irritation and breakdown due to fluid accumulating under the skin and is the result of blood pooling under the skin due to insufficient blood return or circulation. Poor circulation in the capillaries causes fluid and cells to leak out of the capillaries. Stasis dermatitis starts around or above the ankle and gradually moves up the leg to the knee. It may start out as itchy, red, dry skin and the skin may turn shiny or have red-brown patches. There may be some swelling, but in chronic (over 3 months) cases of Stasis dermatitis, the skin may harden or tighten and become tender to the touch. The most important step in caring for Stasis dermatitis is to prevent infection.

In severe cases of Stasis dermatitis, the skin breakdowns and form weeping, crusty (crater-like) ulcerations (sores or wounds).  These wounds require immediate treatment and you should see your healthcare provider right away. You may even be prescribed compression stockings that you wear every day to help force the fluid and blood back out of the lower leg.  You will be given instructions for how to care for your wound and when you should return for a check-up. Wounds caused by bad or poor circulation are the most challenging types to heal. That is why it is so very important to prevent them from occurring, while they are still a rash form of Stasis dermatitis.

Apply AMERIGEL Care Lotion to your lower legs 2-3 times every day to stop the itching and reduce the redness associated with dry skin.  All AMERIGEL products are backed by an unconditional 30-day money-back guarantee.