Wounds that are difficult to heal and/or non-healing may be a result of pressure, trauma, burns or infection. Sometimes, the simplest of wounds can turn into a significant problem due to underlying conditions, such as diabetes, circulation problems or previous radiation.

Signs & Symptoms

Common Symptoms of Wounds

• Pain: Most wounds will cause some level of pain, which can vary depending on the wound’s severity and location.
• Swelling: Inflammation around the wound site is common as the body responds to injury.
• Bleeding: Fresh wounds typically bleed, and the amount can indicate the wound’s depth and severity.

Signs of Serious Wounds

• Substantial Tissue Loss: This can occur with deep wounds and may require medical intervention.
• Damage to Internal Organs: Wounds that penetrate deeply may affect organs such as the lungs, brain, or heart, leading to more complex symptoms.

Indicators of Infection

• Redness and Warmth: Increased redness and warmth around the wound may suggest infection.
• Pus or Discharge: Yellowish or green discharge is a clear sign of infection.
• Odor: An unpleasant smell emanating from the wound can indicate bacterial growth.
• Red Streaks: Red lines spreading from the wound towards the heart are a serious sign of infection.
• Fever and Chills: Systemic symptoms like fever can occur if the infection spreads.
• Increased Pain and Swelling: Worsening pain and swelling may indicate an infection is developing.

When to Seek Medical Attention

• Uncontrolled Bleeding: If bleeding does not stop with pressure, medical care is necessary.
• Wounds from Bites: Animal or human bites can introduce bacteria and require professional cleaning.
• Dirty or Contaminated Wounds: Wounds with debris or dirt should be assessed by a healthcare provider.
• Wounds Not Healing: If a wound shows no signs of healing after a few days, it may be infected or require specialized care.

Recognizing these signs and symptoms early can prevent complications and promote faster healing. Always consult a healthcare provider if you suspect a wound is infected or if you have concerns about its healing process.

Types of Wounds

• Diabetic Foot Ulcers
• Pressure Ulcers
• Venous Leg Ulcers
• Arterial Ulcers
• Surgical Wounds
• Traumatic Wounds
• Burn Wounds
• Infected Wounds
• Ostomy Skin Issues

Diabetic Foot Ulcers

Diabetic foot ulcers are open sores or wounds that typically occur on the feet of individuals with type 1 or type 2 diabetes. They are a common complication of diabetes, affecting about one-third of people with the condition during their lifetime. These ulcers develop due to a combination of factors, including peripheral neuropathy, which leads to decreased sensation, and peripheral artery disease, which reduces blood flow to the legs. As a result, minor injuries or pressure points can develop into ulcers without the patient noticing. Diabetic foot ulcers are responsible for more hospitalizations than any other complication of diabetes and can lead to serious outcomes, such as infection and amputation, if not properly managed.

Pressure Ulcers

Pressure ulcers, also known as bedsores, occur due to prolonged pressure on the skin, often affecting individuals with limited mobility. They typically develop on bony areas of the body, such as the heels, ankles, hips, and tailbone. Prevention is key, involving regular repositioning, use of pressure-relieving devices, and maintaining skin hygiene.

Venous Leg Ulcers

Venous leg ulcers are chronic wounds that occur due to improper functioning of the venous valves in the legs, leading to poor blood circulation. They are characterized by shallow, painful sores that often develop on the lower legs. Treatment focuses on improving circulation through compression therapy and wound care to promote healing.

Arterial Ulcers

Arterial ulcers are caused by inadequate blood flow to the extremities, often due to atherosclerosis. These ulcers are typically found on the feet or lower legs and are characterized by deep, painful wounds with a pale or necrotic appearance. Management includes improving blood flow through medical or surgical interventions and wound care to prevent infection.

Surgical Wounds

Surgical wounds are incisions made during surgery that require careful management to prevent infection and promote healing. Proper wound care involves keeping the area clean, monitoring for signs of infection, and following post-operative instructions provided by healthcare professionals.

Traumatic Wounds

Traumatic wounds result from injuries such as cuts, lacerations, or punctures. They can vary in severity and may involve damage to deeper tissues. Treatment includes cleaning the wound, applying appropriate dressings, and possibly sutures or other interventions to facilitate healing.

Burn Wounds

Burn wounds are caused by exposure to heat, chemicals, or electricity and can range from minor to severe. Treatment focuses on cooling the burn, managing pain, preventing infection, and minimizing scarring. Severe burns may require specialized care and rehabilitation.

Infected Wounds

Infected wounds exhibit signs of infection such as redness, warmth, swelling, pus, and increased pain. They require prompt medical attention, including cleaning, antibiotics, and possibly surgical intervention to prevent the spread of infection.

Ostomy Skin Issues

Ostomy skin issues arise around the stoma site in patients with ostomies. Proper care involves education on stoma management, use of specialized products to protect the skin, and regular monitoring to prevent complications.

Wound Care & Lymphedema Therapy

We also offer specialized Lymphedema Therapy to support patients dealing with both lymphedema and chronic wounds. Lymphedema, characterized by swelling due to the accumulation of lymph fluid, can complicate wound healing by increasing the risk of infection and delaying recovery. Our comprehensive therapy program aims to reduce swelling, improve lymphatic flow, and enhance overall skin health.

Benefits of Lymphedema Therapy for Wound Care:

• Reduced Swelling: By decreasing fluid buildup, lymphedema therapy helps minimize pressure on wounds, promoting faster healing.
• Improved Circulation: Enhanced lymphatic flow aids in delivering essential nutrients and oxygen to the wound site, supporting the body’s natural healing processes.
• Infection Prevention: Effective management of lymphedema reduces the risk of infection, a common complication in patients with chronic wounds.
• Customized Care Plans: Our team of specialists provides personalized therapy plans tailored to each patient’s needs, ensuring optimal outcomes and improved quality of life.

If you’re experiencing lymphedema and chronic wounds, our dedicated team is here to help you manage your condition and achieve better healing results. Contact us today at (515) 462-5206 to learn more about our lymphedema therapy services and how they can benefit your wound care journey.