Eczema & Dermatitis
Stasis Dermatitis
Venous eczema; gravitational dermatitis
Common, especially in older adults
No — you cannot catch it or spread it
Manageable; improves by treating the cause
What Is It?
Stasis dermatitis is a red, itchy, scaly rash on the lower legs caused by poor blood flow in the leg veins. When blood pools instead of returning to the heart, fluid and pressure build up and irritate the skin. It is common in people with leg swelling or varicose veins.
Signs & Symptoms
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Red, scaly, itchy skin on the lower legs and ankles
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Swelling that's worse at the end of the day
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Brown or rust-colored discoloration over time
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Skin that feels heavy, tight, or achy
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In severe cases, open sores (leg ulcers)
Why Does It Happen?
It's caused by chronic venous insufficiency — the leg veins have trouble pumping blood upward, so blood and fluid pool in the lower legs. This leakage inflames the skin. Risk rises with age, leg swelling, varicose veins, prior blood clots, obesity, and long periods of standing or sitting.
Treatment Options
The key is improving blood flow and reducing swelling, while calming the skin. Managing the underlying vein problem prevents flares and complications.
COMPRESSION
Compression stockings reduce swelling and are the cornerstone of care.
LEG ELEVATION
Raising the legs above heart level helps fluid drain.
MOISTURIZERS
Thick emollients repair the skin barrier and ease itching.
TOPICAL STEROIDS
Short courses calm active redness and itching during flares.
Tips for Managing It at Home
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Wear compression stockings as directed by your provider
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Elevate your legs several times a day
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Moisturize daily; avoid harsh soaps and hot water
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Stay active and avoid long periods of standing still
When to Call Your Provider
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An open sore or ulcer develops on the leg
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Increasing redness, warmth, pain, or pus (possible infection)
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Sudden swelling in one leg (rule out a blood clot)
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The rash worsens or doesn't improve with home care
Sources & further reading
The information in this handout is based on general dermatology guidance from the reputable organizations below. These links are provided for patients who wish to read more from trusted sources.
American Academy of Dermatology (AAD). Stasis Dermatitis: Overview. https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/eczema/types/stasis-dermatitis
Canadian Dermatology Association (CDA). Eczema. https://dermatology.ca/public-patients/diseases-conditions/skin-conditions/eczema/
DermNet. Venous Eczema (Stasis Dermatitis). https://dermnetnz.org/topics/venous-eczema
MSD/Merck Manual. Stasis Dermatitis. https://www.msdmanuals.com/professional/dermatologic-disorders/dermatitis/stasis-dermatitis
This handout is for general education and does not replace advice from your own provider. Always follow your provider’s specific instructions.
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