By Mohammed Islam, MD
Board Certified Endovascular and Venous surgeon
October 13, 2021
What you should know about chronic wounds
Wounds are a common problem across the globe, but they are especially prevalent in older adults. Chronic wounds are an even more debilitating condition that can have negative effects on your quality of life. Oftentimes, these wounds go untreated due to a lack of understanding about how they form and what you can do to prevent them from happening. Here is some information on chronic wounds so that you know what to look for and how to take care of yourself or loved ones who may need it most!
- Chronic wounds can be serious and even fatal if they go untreated.
- People who are older or have a chronic illness like diabetes, heart disease, etc., are more susceptible to developing non-healing wounds.
- Any type of wound that has not started to heal within two weeks is considered chronic and needs medical attention.
- The most common causes for these types of wounds include vascular diseases (like venous insufficiency), skin ulcers from pressure on the body’s bony prominences such as elbows, hips, and heels caused by limited mobility in bedridden patients; neuropathic foot pain due to nerve damage; diabetic foot ulceration which occurs when high blood sugar levels cause changes in how nerves carry messages, leading to damage of blood vessels and other small structures in the foot.
- Diabetic foot ulcers are a common cause of hospitalization and amputation.
- Chronic wounds can be debilitating to those who have them, but early diagnosis and treatment from an experienced physician is key!
Our physicians at Sinai Wounds, focusing on wound treatments, provide comprehensive care for chronic wounds. The center offers a multidisciplinary approach with expertise in multiple specialties, including podiatry team, advanced Diagnostics (MRI; CT; Doppler, X-Reys), varicose and Venous diseases laser treatments, pain management, and neurology services, diabetic and nutrition consultations, as well as other relevant disciplines so you receive the best possible outcome for your condition.
Our doctors will look at all aspects of how you live and work to find the underlying cause of your non-healing wounds. We will collaborate with you on developing an individualized treatment plan that meets all of your needs, including diet management, nutrition support, physical therapy, surgical intervention as necessary for wound debridements & reconstruction (when needed).
Chronic wounds can also be life-threatening if not treated properly! Don’t wait until it is too late. If you think you have a chronic wound or know someone who does, give us a call at 718-524-3399 so we can begin working together toward better health outcomes today!
