For people who are living with diabetes, it is important to take proper care of their wounds. Diabetes can cause poor circulation of blood, which can then lead to nerve damage and make minor wounds prone to inflammation, complications, and slower healing.
That’s why it is recommended for such people to take special care of their wounds and prevent infections and ulcers from happening. To ensure this, they will have to follow certain lifestyle habits and ways to care for their wounds. We will discuss these ways in detail in the below paragraphs.
Practice Good Foot Care
Diabetic patients are particularly prone to foot wounds due to nerve damage and reduced blood circulation, as mentioned above. That’s why proper foot care is crucial to prevent ulcers and infections occurring in feet.
Remember to keep your feet clean and moisturized, but avoid applying lotion between your toes to prevent excess moisture buildup. Wear well-fitting, comfortable shoes and socks to prevent friction and pressure points. Inspect your feet regularly and consult diabetic foot care largo fl if you notice anything unusual.
Maintain Proper Blood Sugar Levels
One of the most fundamental aspects of wound care for diabetic patients is maintaining stable blood sugar levels. Increased blood sugar levels can impair the body’s natural healing processes and increase the risk of infection and delay wound healing.
Consistently monitor your blood glucose levels and work with your healthcare provider to develop a management plan that keeps your levels within a healthy range. By doing so, you create an environment conducive to efficient wound healing.
Keep Wounds Clean and Dry
Moisture is the biggest factor contributing to infected wounds and that’s why cleanliness is paramount when it comes to wound care. Gently cleanse the wound with mild soap and warm water. This is important for taking care of your feet.
Just avoid harsh scrubbing that might damage the delicate tissue of your wounds. And after cleaning, gently pat the wound dry using a clean, soft towel. Moisture on the wounds can foster bacterial growth and hinder the healing process. That’s why you will have to keep your wound dry to help reduce the risk of infection.
Apply Antibiotic Ointments
Antibiotic ointments and dressings are there to protect your wound from any potential contaminants and bacteria that may be harmful to your wounds. However, it is not advised to use ointments and dressings on your own. Consult your healthcare provider before using ointments to ensure they are safe for your wound type.
Also, the dressings you use should be non-stick, so they don’t adhere to the wound and further damage it. This will ensure that you minimize pain during dressing changes. When changing dressings, be sure to monitor them and consult a healthcare specialist if they don’t seem like healing. Look for redness, swelling, and increased pain.
It is a sign that they are not healing at all. Going to doctor will prevent you from complications and ensure you get the treatment you need.