Wound care for diabetes patients

Effect of diabetes on wound healing

Diabetes mellitus is one of the leading sources of illness worldwide. Wounds can take longer to heal in people with diabetes and this may increase the danger of developing infections and other complications. For people with Diabetes, wounds often appear on the legs and feet. Managing your diabetes well can improve the speed at which wounds heal and leads to reducing the possibility of a severe infection.

Origin of diabetic wounds

Issues with healing diabetic wounds is caused by the peripheral arterial diseases and peripheral neuropathy. These are more likely to occur with diabetes where the small blood vessels in various part of the body grow narrower and reduce the blood circulation to the extremities such as hands and feet. This can lead to a reduction of oxygen supply and also reduction of nutrients to the body tissue and nerves, which are fundamental for healing. As a result, the person may become more prone to injury, as the nerves in given areas may be damaged, decreasing pain sensation and sensitivity to touch and temperature.

Types of diabetic wounds

For a person with diabetes, every wound becomes a concern and requires immediate attention.

Wounds of external origin (skin cuts, bruises, bumps)

• risk of going unnoticed by the person
• if left unnoticed, this may lead to further complications

Wounds of internal origin (calluses, ingrown toenails, skin ulcers)

• can cause the breakdown of skin and the surrounding tissue
• increased risk of bacterial infections

Signs and symptoms

Diabetic wounds may be completely painless or present with chronic pain.

• Signs of infection – pain and loss of function, heat, swelling, redness
• Signs of inflammation – bad odour and dead tissue, pus drainage, discharge
• Fever and/or chills – signs of worsening infection that can be life-threatening
• New numbness – signs of nerve damage

Treatment

Prevention is the best treatment of diabetic wounds, as medical treatment currently available provides limited help. Should a wound appear, ensure to keep it clean and dressed appropriately. For infected wounds and as a preventative tool for wounds at risk of getting infected, antibiotics may be prescribed by your doctor. In some instances, the infected or dead tissue is surgically removed to allow the healthy tissue to heal and restore.

For people living with diabetes with toenail problems, chronic ulcers that are not healing, calluses, corns, bunions and hammertoes, referral to a podiatrist or a wound clinic may be required.

In cases of a serious infection, limb amputation may be the only option to preserve healthy tissue.

Prevention is critical

Prevention is vital, considering how debilitating and life threating diabetic wounds can be. Stay in control of your diabetes by following your doctor’s advice for treatment and lifestyle adjustments. This may include healthy balanced diet, regular exercise, monitoring blood glucose levels and avoiding smoking. Check your limbs daily and make sure to keep them clean, as they tend to be subject to ulcers and injuries. Regularly trim your nails with a suitable and safe nail trimmer, if there are any skin lesions, speak to a healthcare professional. Never walk barefoot and wear clean, dry socks (not too tight to affect your blood circulation), to protect your feet.

Why Choose Us?

Choosing Cavendish Homecare for specialised diabetes homecare means that you will be provided a dedicated team of nurses or carers who have extensive expertise in managing diabetes. We understand that diabetes can be unpredictable. We provide flexible, comprehensive and responsive support help you maintain the highest quality of care. To learn more about our care services and how we can assist with your needs, please reach out to our team. We are here to discuss further and address any questions or concerns you may have.