How to Treat Wounds That Won’t Heal

Our bodies can heal most wounds naturally, but sometimes they need extra help to heal properly.

When a wound shows little improvement after a month of regular care, it shifts into “chronic wound” territory. Understanding these stubborn wounds and your treatment options can make a big difference in recovery.

What Are Chronic or Non-Healing Wounds?

A chronic wound is an injury that hasn’t improved much after 4-6 weeks of care. These wounds can cause ongoing pain and might lead to more serious problems if left untreated.

Your body typically follows four main stages of healing. First, blood clots form to stop bleeding. Next, inflammation helps fight off infection. Then, new tissue starts to grow. Finally, the wound closes up and forms a scar.

A chronic (or non-healing) wound gets stuck in one of these stages, usually the inflammation phase.

Why Do Some Wounds Stop Healing?

Several things can interrupt the healing process. Understanding these factors helps you and your healthcare team choose the proper treatment.

Blood Flow Problems

Your blood delivers important healing properties to your wounds. When blood flow slows down, healing slows down too. This often happens in the legs and feet, especially in people with diabetes or circulation issues.

Infection

Bacteria in a wound can slow down healing. That’s why it’s important to watch for these warning signs of infection:

• Redness around the wound
• Increased warmth in the area
• New or increased swelling
• Cloudy drainage from the wound
• Unpleasant smell
• Fever or chills

Underlying Health Conditions

Some health conditions make it harder for wounds to heal. This includes:

• Diabetes affects both blood flow and nerve function
• Immune system disorders reduce your body’s natural healing ability
• Heart problems can limit blood circulation
• Vein problems can cause swelling that slows healing

How to Treat Wounds That Won’t Heal

Proper wound care is a top priority when it comes to healing chronic wounds. Follow these important steps:

1. Clean the wound using soap and water or a special wound cleanser.
2. Keep the wound environment balanced – moist but not wet. This helps new skin cells move and grow.
3. Change dressings according to your doctor’s schedule. Fresh dressings help prevent infection and support healing.
4. Protect the wound from bumps and pressure that could cause new damage.

Advanced Treatment Options

There are several effective treatments for stubborn, chronic wounds that won’t heal:

Specialized Dressings

Different wounds need different types of dressings. It’s best to consult with your healthcare provider to determine which dressing is best for your situation. Here are some examples:

• Foam dressings help manage moderate to heavy drainage
• Hydrocolloid dressings work well for dry wounds
• Antimicrobial dressings help prevent and fight infection
• Advanced collagen dressings support new tissue growth

Compression Therapy

For leg wounds, doctors often recommend compression bandages. These special wraps help squeeze fluid out of swollen tissues and improve blood flow.

Debridement

Sometimes, dead tissue prevents healing. Doctors remove this tissue through a process called debridement. This gives healthy tissue the space it needs to grow.

When to Contact Your Doctor

Don’t wait to get help if you notice the following symptoms:

• A wound that hasn’t improved after four weeks
• Increasing pain or redness
• Fever or chills
• Strange smell or unusual drainage
• Numbness around the wound area
• The wound getting bigger instead of smaller

Preventing Chronic Wounds

It’s good to know that there are steps you can take if a chronic wound develops. However, it goes without saying that avoiding chronic wounds in the first place is preferred. Here are some steps you can take to help avoid non-healing wounds:

• Daily Skin Checks: Examine your skin daily, especially if you have diabetes. Look for any cuts, scrapes, or pressure spots. Early detection leads to better outcomes.
• Proper Skin Care: Keep your skin healthy by using gentle soaps that don’t dry out your skin. On top of this, apply moisturizer to prevent cracking and protect sensitive areas.
• Healthy Lifestyle Choices: Make sure to eat plenty of protein-rich foods, drink enough water throughout the day, and stay active to maintain good circulation.

While this guide provides helpful information about wound care, always follow your healthcare provider’s specific instructions. They know your particular situation and can give you the best advice for your wound care needs.

Wound Treatment Supplies At Medical Monks

Medical Monks provides all the wound care supplies needed for proper treatment. We offer medical-grade products recommended by healthcare professionals, from basic gauze to advanced wound care dressings.

If you have any questions about our selection of products, feel free to contact one of our experts today!