Chronic wounds that are difficult to heal are a common problem, affecting nearly six million individuals in the United States. Most of these individuals suffer from circulation problems or diabetes. Oftentimes, treatments will require wound care specialists in TX to help heal and prevent serious complications. Wounds that are left untreated or not properly cared can become very serious leading to ulcerations, necrosis of tissue and the need for amputation.
When A Specialist May Be Needed
Individuals who develop a wound or sore that does not improve within a month or does not heal completely within two months should seek treatment from a specialist who can treat the condition properly. These include burns, ulcers caused from diabetes or pressure, inflammation of blood vessels, bacterial infections, surgical incision sites, peripheral ischemia due to traumatic injuries and infections that progress.
Diabetic Foot Ulcers
Individuals who are diabetic and take insulin are at greater risk of developing foot ulcers if the disease has caused vascular or nerve damage. When the nerves of the lower extremities become damaged, patients can develop sores on the feet and not be aware of them. Diabetics are also slower to heal, which can result in serious foot ulcerations. These types of ulcers often occur on the bottom of the foot, which makes them more susceptible to infection and are frequently to blame for amputations. Individuals who suffer from difficult-to-heal wounds such as pressure ulcers or diabetic ulcers should seek professional treatment from a wound care specialist as soon as possible. With advanced treatment and care, these conditions can often be healed completely within a matter of months.
Treatments Provided By Specialists
Wound care specialists use a variety of treatments depending on the severity and type. Treatments may include debribment of the affected area to clean and remove any necrotic tissue, infection control using antimicrobobials and antiseptics, frequent dressing changes, nutritional support to ensure patients receive the proper vitamins and protein that aid in the healing process and hyperbaric oxygen therapy. Patients are also provided with detailed home-care instructions to continue treating their wounds at home.
Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy helps provide additional oxygen to the affected area, which can be essential in stimulating the healing process. The therapy requires the patient to remain in a hyperbaric chamber that maintains an atmosphere of 100 percent oxygen for a specified period. Patients can relax and watch television or listen to a CD player while undergoing the therapy. As the patient breathes in the pure oxygen, their blood plasma oxygen content is increased by 20 to 30 percent its normal value. This causes the body's healing mechanisms to improve functioning, increasing the immune system and resulting in improved healing.
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