Types of Ulcers: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Types of Ulcers: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

When you hear the word ulcer, you may usually think of stomach pain. But ulcers aren’t limited to the stomach. They’re simply sores that take a long time to heal and can develop either inside the body or on the skin.

In most cases, an ulcer forms because the tissue in that area has been damaged and isn’t healing the way it should. There could be several reasons behind it. For eg, infection, poor blood flow, constant pressure on one spot, injury, or long-standing health conditions like diabetes and others. ^{1, 2}

Some ulcers are visible, like wounds on the legs or feet that just won’t close. While others stay hidden inside the body, quietly causing discomfort until symptoms become obvious. The important thing is this: ulcers rarely improve on their own without proper care. Identifying the type early makes a real difference. ^{1, 2}

So, What Are the Main Types of Ulcers?

Broadly speaking, they fall into two groups:

• Internal Ulcers

  These develop inside the body. The most common example is a peptic ulcer, which affects the lining of the stomach or the upper part of the small intestine. ²

  They’re often linked to:

  • A bacterial infection
  • Long-term use of certain pain medications
  • Excess stomach acid
• Skin Ulcers

  Skin ulcers are easier to spot because they appear on the body’s surface. Most of them are connected to circulation issues, nerve damage, or prolonged pressure on one area. The most common types include: ^{1, 3, 4}

  • Diabetic ulcers
  • Pressure ulcers
  • Arterial ulcers
  • Venous leg ulcers

Although they may look similar at first, their causes are quite different. That’s why proper diagnosis matters. Let’s look at each type more closely.

What Are Diabetic Ulcers?

Diabetic ulcers most often develop on the feet. Over time, high blood sugar can damage nerves, reducing sensation. This means a small cut, blister, or shoe bite may go unnoticed. On top of that, diabetes can reduce blood circulation, which slows healing. ^{5, 6}

Common Causes: ^{5, 6}

• Nerve damage
• Poor circulation
• Persistently high blood sugar levels
• Minor injuries that aren’t felt

Symptoms Look Like: ^{5, 6}

• An open sore, usually on the foot or toes
• Swelling or redness around the area
• Fluid discharge
• A bad smell if infection develops

What Are Pressure Ulcers?

Pressure ulcers, often called bedsores, happen when one part of the body experiences constant pressure for a long time. They’re common in people who are bedridden, use wheelchairs, or have difficulty moving independently. When pressure limits blood flow to the skin, especially over bony areas like the hips or heels, the tissue begins to break down. ^{1, 7}

Causes ^{1, 7}

• Staying in one position for extended periods
• Limited mobility
• Friction against bedding or clothing
• Poor nutrition
• Reduced blood circulation

Early Signs ^{1, 7}

• Skin that looks red or darker than usual and doesn’t fade
• Tenderness
• Mild swelling
• In more advanced stages, open sores or blisters

What Are Arterial Ulcers?

Arterial ulcers are linked to poor blood flow through the arteries. When arteries narrow or become blocked, tissues don’t receive enough oxygen. Without a proper oxygen supply, the skin becomes fragile and may break down. These ulcers are usually painful and tend to appear on the toes, feet, or ankles. ^{1, 8, 9, 10}

Causes ^{1, 8, 9, 10, 11}

• Peripheral artery disease
• High cholesterol
• High blood pressure
• Diabetes

Symptoms ^{1, 8, 9, 10}

• Deep, round wounds
• Significant pain
• Pale or cold skin around the wound
• Weak pulse in the affected leg or foot

What Are Venous Leg Ulcers?

Venous ulcers are actually one of the most common leg ulcers. They occur when veins struggle to send blood back up toward the heart. Blood collects in the lower legs, creating pressure that damages the surrounding skin. Over time, the skin weakens and breaks open, usually near the ankle. ^{1, 5, 12, 13, 14}

Causes ^{1, 5, 12, 13, 14}

• Chronic venous insufficiency
• Varicose veins
• Previous blood clots
• Long hours of standing
• Obesity

Symptoms ^{1, 5, 12, 13, 14}

• A shallow wound around the ankle
• Swelling in the lower leg
• Aching or heaviness
• Darkened or discoloured skin
• Dry or itchy surrounding skin

How Wound Evolution Treats Different Types of Ulcers?

Traditional Dressings

Traditional dressings include gauze, foam, alginate, and hydrogel dressings, which are commonly used based on exudate levels and wound type. Foam dressings work well for pressure ulcers, while alginate suits heavily draining wounds. Hydrogel dressings are effective for dry or minimally exudating wounds, as they add moisture to promote healing. ^{15, 16}

Amniotic-Based Dressings

Amniotic-based dressings define a significant advancement in ulcer treatment. These dressings utilise amniotic tissue, which naturally contains growth factors, proteins, and antimicrobial properties that accelerate wound management. ¹⁷

AmchoPlast FDTM is the leading example of an amniotic-based dressing that combines the regenerative properties of amniotic tissue with modern wound care technology. This human amnion-intermediate layer-chorion membrane allograft (a special layer from donated placental tissue) is intended for use as a wound covering. It acts as a protective barrier over the wound and maintains a moist environment that supports the body’s natural healing process.

Summing Up

Ulcers may begin as small, harmless-looking sores, but they often signal a deeper issue that needs attention. That’s why simply covering a wound isn’t enough. The right diagnosis helps guide the appropriate treatment.

The key takeaway is simple: ulcers rarely resolve on their own. Early identification, timely medical intervention, and appropriate wound management can prevent complications and significantly improve outcomes. When addressed properly, even chronic ulcers can be managed successfully, restoring both tissue health and quality of life.