There are four main types of skin ulcers: decubitus, venous, arterial, and neuropathic. Each type has a different cause and needs different treatment.A skin ulcer is a sore or wound on your skin that can take longer to heal than a regular cut. Some heal on their own in 1–2 weeks, but if they last longer than two weeks, they may lead to infections and other serious problems. Here’s a simple breakdown of the four types:Decubitus (Pressure) UlcersThese ulcers, also known as bedsores, happen when too much pressure is applied to the skin for too long, cutting off blood flow. They usually form on bony areas like the back, hips, and heels, especially in people who are bedridden or in wheelchairs.Symptoms: Pain, swelling, warmth, colour changes, pus.Treatment: Reducing pressure, keeping the area dry, using antibiotics, or surgery in severe cases.Venous Skin UlcersVenous ulcers are the most common type of leg ulcer, often caused by weak veins or poor blood flow in the legs. If you have varicose veins or have had a leg injury, you might be at higher risk.Symptoms: Pain, swelling, itchy skin, hard or discoloured skin around the ulcer.Treatment: Regular cleaning, dressings, antibiotics if infected, and compression stockings.Arterial (Ischemic) Skin UlcersThese ulcers form when blocked arteries reduce blood flow to the legs and feet. They’re more common if you have conditions like atherosclerosis (hardened arteries).Symptoms: Pain that’s worse at night, redness, swelling, pus, and a growing ulcer.Treatment: Clean and dress the ulcer, use antibiotics if infected, and treat the underlying artery problem with surgery if needed.Neuropathic (Diabetic) Skin UlcersThese ulcers occur in people with diabetes, especially when nerve damage (neuropathy) makes it hard to feel injuries in the feet.Symptoms: Loss of feeling in the foot, ulcers from unnoticed injuries, possible infection.Treatment: Keeping blood sugar in check, protecting the wound with dressings, and using antibiotics if needed. Severe cases may need surgery.Can skin ulcers become cancerous? Most common skin ulcers don’t become cancerous. However, some ulcers can be misdiagnosed, so it’s important to get a proper check-up from a doctor.What is the fastest way to heal a skin ulcer? Keep the ulcer dry and clean, dress it regularly, and avoid putting pressure on it.What is the most common type of skin ulcer? Venous ulcers are the most common, making up 60%-80% of leg ulcers. However, decubitus ulcers are more common on the back and hips.