For most people, cuts and scrapes are minor problems, but if you have diabetes, even a small wound can quickly become a serious health risk. Wounds may take longer to heal, and if left untreated, they can turn into something serious. That’s why understanding how diabetes impacts healing is key to better wound care.
Why Do Wounds Heal Slower with Diabetes?
When you have diabetes, your body faces a few extra hurdles when it comes to healing. A wound that might heal in a month for most people could take several months, or longer, for someone with diabetes. And if a wound isn’t showing improvement within 4-6 weeks, there’s a higher risk that it won’t heal without help.
Here are four common reasons why healing slows down for people with diabetes:
- Reduced blood flow: Good circulation is vital for wound healing because it delivers oxygen and nutrients where they’re needed the most. But diabetes can damage blood vessels, especially in the hands and feet. This slows the entire healing process.
- Nerve damage: Diabetic neuropathy affects feeling in your feet and hands. That means you might not even notice a cut or sore right away, which gives the wound more time to get worse before it’s treated.
- Weakened immune system: High blood sugar can impair your immune response, making it harder for your body to fight off infection. That makes proper wound care even more essential.
- Ongoing inflammation: When your blood sugar is consistently high, it keeps your body in a state of low-grade inflammation. And that interferes with your body’s natural healing timeline.
These factors can combine to create chronic, non-healing wounds. And unfortunately, those wounds can lead to serious complications like diabetic ulcers, infections, even amputation, or sepsis if not managed properly.
How to Promote Wound Healing
Managing wounds for people with diabetes is more involved, but absolutely possible. Here’s how you can support healing and take control of your wound care:
- Keep wounds clean and dry. Clean wounds heal faster and are less likely to get infected.
- Manage your blood sugar. Keeping your glucose levels steady supports every stage of healing.
- Eat well. A balanced diet, especially with enough protein, gives your body the tools it needs to repair tissue.
- Know when to get help. If you notice redness, swelling, or discharge, see your healthcare provider right away.
When Standard Wound Care Isn’t Enough
At Maragal Medical, we offer a regenerative wound care program designed to help wounds heal, even when they haven’t responded to antibiotics or surgery. It’s non-invasive, innovative, and has helped many patients get their lives back.
Watch Dr. Tim and Dr. Marciello explain the difference between basic and advanced wound care.
Healing is Possible
If you’re living with diabetes, even small wounds deserve your attention. Early care leads to better outcomes, and we’re here to help. At Maragal Medical, our team offers advanced wound care that’s non-invasive, effective, and personalized to you. Ask your wound care provider about this treatment option or give us a call at 978-537-0555 to learn more.