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Many types of wounds exist, and each requires a specific approach to management. By understanding the differences between these wounds, you can take the first step toward providing appropriate attention. Here is more information on several types of chronic or complex wounds, along with their general wound care principles:
Diabetic Wounds
People with diabetes may develop foot ulcers, which are a typical type of diabetic wound. This type of wound may appear on the feet, and it can develop from minor scrapes or cuts that heal slowly. Because nerve damage can reduce sensation, a person might not notice a small injury until it becomes a larger problem. Diligent foot inspection is a key preventative measure.
External Pressure Ulcers
External pressure ulcers, also known as bedsores, are injuries to the skin and underlying tissue. These wounds result from prolonged pressure on the skin. They can develop on skin that covers bony areas of the body, such as the heels, ankles, hips, and tailbone. Due to skin contact, individuals with limited mobility may be at a higher risk of developing these ulcers.
Regularly changing a person’s position may help distribute pressure and reduce the risk of these wounds forming. While frequent repositioning is a primary method of prevention, special cushions and mattresses also help relieve pressure. The skin needs consistent evaluation for any signs of redness or breakdown, especially over bony areas.
While early-stage ulcers might only need pressure relief and a clean dressing, more advanced wounds require more involved treatments. Wound care for pressure ulcers depends on their severity. A healthcare provider will assess the wound to determine the best course of action. This plan is designed to clean the wound, manage any dead tissue, and create a good environment for healing.
Vascular Wounds
Vascular wounds develop when blood circulation is poor, and these wounds typically occur on the legs and feet. There are two main types of vascular ulcers, which are arterial and venous. Venous ulcers result from damaged veins that struggle to send blood back to the heart. When arteries fail to deliver enough oxygen-rich blood to the lower extremities, arterial ulcers occur.
The management of vascular wounds focuses on improving circulation and addressing the wound itself. For venous ulcers, this typically involves compression therapy to help blood flow, and the wound requires regular cleaning and dressing. People with arterial ulcers may need procedures to restore blood flow, as these wounds will not heal without an adequate oxygen supply. A few basic care steps include:
- Elevating the legs to reduce swelling.
- Keeping the wound clean and bandaged.
- Following a provider’s specific instructions.
Radiation-related Wounds
Radiation therapy, while effective for treating cancer, can sometimes damage the skin. This damage may lead to radiation-related wounds or dermatitis. The skin in the treatment area may become red, dry, and irritated, and in some cases, it may blister or peel. These reactions occur because radiation affects healthy skin cells as well as cancer cells. The severity of the skin reaction depends on the radiation dose and the area of the body being treated.
Schedule Wound Care Today
Managing complex wounds requires a detailed, consistent approach, and each wound type has unique characteristics that guide its treatment plan. To recommend the most appropriate path forward, a healthcare professional can evaluate your situation. Contact an urgent care clinic to schedule an appointment and discuss your wound care needs.
