You have been given this leaflet as you may be at risk of developing skin problems on your legs. You may previously have had an ulcer.

Skin care

Your skin provides many functions including temperature regulation and protection. It is important to maintain your skin in a healthy condition to reduce the risk of infection.

What do I look for?

Colour

Report any unusual changes.

Nails

Cut appropriately and avoid leaving any sharp edges. See a chiropodist if necessary.

Scratches/blisters

Report any skin damage or blisters as soon as possible.

Hot/cold

Does your skin feel unusually hot or cold? Report if concerned.

Moist

If your leg is swollen, water may leak through the skin. Tell your nurse if this happens.

Dry/flaky

If you have not been prescribed or recommended a suitable emollient for dry skin please ask the person providing your treatment.

What can I do to help?

Hygiene
  • Pay particular attention to cleansing and avoid perfumed soaps.
  • Dry very carefully paying particular attention to skin folds and between toes.
  • If your skin is dry and flaky regular use of your emollient is important.
  • Bedtime is a good time to apply your emollient if you remove your hosiery at night.
  • Always wear footwear and avoid walking barefoot.
  • Seek advice promptly for any cuts, grazes, blisters or bruises.
  • Use a good repellent and avoid insect bites where possible. Treat insect bites promptly and seek advice.

When to seek advice

  • If your leg becomes unusually hot or more swollen.
  • If your leg becomes more swollen - don’t attempt to put on your compression hosiery.
  • If you want to shave your legs.

What may contribute to dry skin?

Dehydration

Try and make sure you drink at least 1 litre of water a day.

Smoking

Avoid if possible.  Seek advice for help on stopping smoking.

Skin exposure to direct sunlight

Protect your limb from the sun. If you remove your hosiery in the sun use a good sun block.

Confidentiality

‘The Trust’s vision is to keep your information safe in our hands.’ We promise to use your information fairly and legally, and in-line with local and national policies. You have a right to understand how your information is used and you can request a copy of the information we hold about you at any time.

For further information on confidentiality contact the Information Governance Team:

Information.Governance@ncic.nhs.uk | 01228 603961

Feedback

We appreciate and encourage feedback, which helps us to improve our services. If you have any comments, compliments or concerns to make about your care, please contact the Patient, Advice & Liaison Service:

pals@ncic.nhs.uk | 01228 814008 or 01946 523818

If you would like to raise a complaint regarding your care, please contact the Complaints Department:

complaints@ncic.nhs.uk | 01228 936302