An ulcer is also called a sore and while this can occur on different parts of the body, the skin is a common area where you will find ulcers developing. There are a lot of reasons for the development of skin ulcers including uncontrolled diabetes, atherosclerosis, aging, and obesity. There are different types of ulcers depending on the cause of the ulcer. When you know the type of ulcer you have, treating it will be easy.

Neuropathic ulcers
If your sugar levels are consistently high and you have not been maintaining a good HbA1c level, then you are at risk of developing neuropathic ulcers. High blood glucose levels can end up causing nerve damage which can result in the formation of ulcers. This is one of the main types of ulcers that millions of people around the world suffer from.

Venous ulcers
If you have poor blood circulation in your legs because of lack of exercise, obesity or other medical reasons, the result may be valve damage. In such cases, the blood that flows back from the legs to the heart gets disturbed and stays in the lower half of the leg resulting in swelling and pain. This can result in skin ulcers. This condition needs to be treated as early as possible.

Pressure ulcers
These main types of ulcers are also called decubitus ulcers. They are caused by constant pressure or friction on the skin. The maximum pressure that your skin tissue can handle is up to 32mm of mercury. Any additional pressure can lead to circulation problems which can cause ulcers. The friction caused by obese body parts or bedsores can lead to pressure ulcers. People who are bedridden are therefore advised to keep changing their position to prevent bedsores.

Buruli ulcer
This is caused by the effect of the mycobacterium ulcerans bacteria. When you are infected by this bacterium, you can develop open and large sores on the arms and legs. This has to be treated as soon as you find the symptoms of ulcers. If left untreated, the result can be permanent physical damage.

Arterial ulcers
The artery is the main blood vessel that carries blood from your heart to the rest of your body. When there is a problem with the blood flow in any of the arteries or if there is a blockage, then you will find ulcer formations in areas such as the lower legs, toes, ankles, and feet. These are also the main types of ulcers and are very painful and need to be treated as early as possible.

All these main types of ulcers need immediate medical attention and treatment. Ulcers, when caught early, can be healed with the right medication. A proper lifestyle and healthy eating habits will ensure you stay ulcer-free all your life. Some of the severe forms of ulcers may require surgery to help with proper healing.