Skin Changes on Your Lower Legs: What Your Circulation May Be Telling You

Your skin can sometimes give clues about your circulation.

Changes on the lower legs and ankles may happen when blood is not moving as well as it should. These changes can look different from person to person.

Some people notice brown or reddish skin near the ankles. Others may have skin that looks shiny, thin, dry, or irritated. Itching can also happen.

Poor vein circulation may cause blood to collect in the lower legs. Over time, this can lead to swelling and changes in the skin. In more serious cases, sores may develop near the ankle.

Artery problems can cause different changes. The feet may look pale or bluish. The skin may feel cool. Hair may grow more slowly on the lower legs, and cuts may take longer to heal.

Many skin changes have causes that are not related to circulation. Still, new or worsening changes should not always be brushed off as dry skin or aging.

A vascular evaluation can help determine whether blood flow is playing a role.

If you have ongoing skin changes on your feet, ankles, or lower legs, the specialists at Pinnacle Vein and Vascular Center can help you understand what may be causing them and what steps may help.

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