wound care AWARENESS
Are you living with a wound that will not heal on it's own?
Non-healing wounds are a serious medical problem for patients who do not seek medical attention, and they're more common than you'd think.
Types of NON-HEALING Wounds
A non-healing wound is a wound that doesn’t heal within five to eight weeks.
These wounds should be taken seriously, because it can become infected and lead to illness or even the loss of a limb.
There are many different types of non-healing wounds, but the most common is an ulcer.
DIABETIC FOOT ULCER
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A round red crater in the skin bordered by thickened callused skin
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Typically occurs on the feet, heel, or toes
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Skin on the legs and feet may be dry and flaky
ARTERIAL ULCER
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Shiny or tight, hairless skin
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Skin that is cool or cold to the touch
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Minimum drainage from the wound
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A round wound with even edges or the look of being punched out
VENOUS ULCER
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Leg pain or achiness
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Swelling in the leg, especially at the end of the day
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Discolored skin in the area above the ankle
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Moderate to heavy drainage from the wound
PRESSURE ULCER
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Most often develop on skin that covers bony areas of the body, such as the heels, ankles, hips and tailbone
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Ulcers begin as pressure injuries from long periods of rest
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If untreated, subcutaneous fat becomes visible
OF PEOPLE LIVING WITH DIABETES WILL EXPERIENCE A FOOT ULCER
OF DIABETES RELATED AMPUTATION STARTED WITH A FOOT ULCER
WHO IS AT RISK
There are many health factors that can put you at risk of developing
hard-to-heal wounds
Long-Term Medical Conditions
Diabetes, anemia, cancer, kidney disease or arthritis.
Immobility
wheelchair or bed confinement.
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Weak
Immunity
cancer, medications, age or medical conditions such as AIDS.
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Heart
Issues
high blood pressure, heart disease or varicose veins.
Unhealthy
Habits
smoking, unhealthy diet, malnutrition or inactivity.
Medical
History
having a history of ulcers​
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SYMPTOMS of infection
Wounds that are healing properly will scab, swell, grow new tissue, and then eventually scar. If you have a wound of any type, present it as soon as it is noted, especially if you suffer with diabetes.
If you have any of the symptoms below, your wound is likely infected, and you should seek medical treatment immediately.
TREATMENT
Treatments vary based on the type and severity of the wound.
Your provider will discuss options with you to determine the best treatment.
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Topical wound medication
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Compression wrapping or stockings
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Antibiotics
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Hyperbaric oxygen therapy
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Debridement (removing unhealthy tissue)
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Negative pressure therapy
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Surgery
medical DIRECTOR OF WOUND CARE
"Non-healing wounds can become a serious health concern if not addressed. We offer state-of-the-art medical procedures to address your non-healing wound. We look forward to serving you."
DONALD PARNELL, M.D.