Red or Brown Skin Near Ankles? It May Be a Circulation Issue

Noticing rusty or brown patches on the skin around your ankles? While it might seem harmless at first, this kind of discoloration can be an early warning sign of vein disease. At the Center for Vein Disease in Chevy Chase, MD, board-certified vascular specialist Dr. Mehru Sonde helps patients understand what these skin changes really mean — and how addressing them early can safeguard both your health and quality of life.

How Can Vein Disease Cause Ankle Discoloration?

Your leg veins have tiny valves that push blood upward for recirculation. When those valves loosen and fail to seal shut after they push blood upward, some of that blood trickles back downward, pooling within the vein. This problem, called chronic venous insufficiency, can lead to pressure buildup in the lower legs.

Over time, this pressure can cause small blood vessels to break, releasing iron-rich blood into the surrounding tissue. The result is often reddish, brown, or purplish discoloration of the skin near the ankles or lower calves. Other symptoms can include:

• Swelling in the lower legs or feet
• Itchy, tight, or shiny skin
• Leg aching or cramping
• Leg heaviness
• Visible varicose or spider veins

If you notice leg discoloration, particularly if it happens alongside these other symptoms, it’s time to take a closer look at your circulation.

Why Early Evaluation Matters

Many people wait too long to address these changes, thinking it’s simply part of aging or sun damage. But ignoring red or brown patches near your ankles could allow vein disease to progress. Without treatment, it can lead to worsening pain, skin hardening, or even leg ulcers.

Early diagnosis can make all the difference. After a comprehensive evaluation, including a lower extremity ultrasound, Dr. Sonde can recommend a personalized plan to treat your vascular issues. We offer conservative strategies, like compression stockings, and the latest advanced vein treatments, like endovenous radiofrequency ablation and VenaSeal™, here in the office.

These minimally invasive techniques can improve both skin appearance and long-term leg health.

Vascular Care For Leg Discoloration in Chevy Chase, MD

Dr. Mehru Sonde brings over 35 years of medical experience to her role as a renowned vascular specialist. Our whole team is ready to help patients from D.C., Maryland, and Virginia understand their symptoms and access the most effective solutions available today.

Call the Center for Vein Disease in Chevy Chase, MD, at 301-220-8346 to schedule a consultation.