Ulcers are sores that heal extremely slowly or keep recurring in the body. They can exist in many forms and could end up appearing on the outside and the inside of one’s body. They could appear on places of the body one can see, such as the legs, or in a place that one cannot see, such as the upper intestine and stomach. Here are some of the main type of ulcers that can affect various body parts:

• Legs/feet ulcers: Ulcers in the legs and feet are extremely painful and could take months to heal. They could look like anything, from darkened patches of swollen skin to oozing red splotches. Most of the leg and feet ulcers start off with injuries that don’t heal well due to some other health issues, which are typically related to blood flow problems.
• Veins: Venous ulcers occur in the veins, usually of the legs. One is more likely to get venous ulcers if they have:
  • Varicose veins
  • Osteoarthritis
  • Limited ability to move around
  • Prior swelling in the legs
  • A history of blood clots in their legs
• Arteries: Individuals with problems in their arteries such as plaque buildup could end up getting arterial ulcers. Usually, people get arterial ulcers in their toes and feet. One of the biggest reasons for arterial ulcers is diabetes, which could cause blood flow and nerve problems. For those who have diabetes, it’s best that they check their feet for even the smallest and most minor of injuries every day.
• Bedsores: Bedsores are also identified as pressure sores or pressure ulcers. The problem is that they appear just like off-color skin to begin with. Over time, however, they could become open, deep wounds. People usually get bedsores due to prolonged pressure on their skin, which leads to lack of blood flow and other problems. One is likely to get bedsores if they have a condition that makes it hard for them to move and if they are forced to sit or lie down for most of the time.
• Genital ulcers: Genital ulcers are painful sores that appear on the anus, vagina, and penis. They are generally caused by STDs such as chancroid, syphilis, and herpes. Genital ulcers could also be caused by a reaction to skincare products or due to an injury. Open sores on genitals could end up making individuals more susceptible to giving or getting STDs, including HIV.
• Corneal ulcers: Corneal ulcers can occur on the surface of the eyes, which is the cornea. They could end up causing pain and redness. Those suffering from them often have the feeling that something is constantly stuck in their eyes. A corneal ulcer usually occurs as a result of an infection. However, one might also get it due to problems with their corneas, injuries to their corneas, or if they have dry-eye syndrome.
• Stomach ulcers: Peptic ulcers happen in the upper part of the intestine or in the stomach. It happens when the stomach acid eats away at the stomach lining.
• Mouth ulcers: Mouth ulcers are also known as canker sores that are gray, yellow, or red in color. They occur on the gums, tongue, lips, and cheeks. They’re caused by certain conditions like Crohn’s or celiac disease. Mouth ulcers could also be due to vitamin deficiency, hormone level changes, and sensitivity to acidic foods.