Diabetes and wound infection can be a deadly combination. Luckily, most complications of diabetes and wound infection can be avoided or prevented with early detection and prompt treatment. Diabetics are more prone to wound infections because their immune system is not as strong those of non-diabetics. Also, diabetics tend to have problems with circulation, vascular disorders, and nerve damage which contribute to the likelihood of an infection occurring. In fact, approximately 15% of diabetics develop foot ulcers and open sores and 6% of these require hospitalization to treat these infections and other complications.

WoundInfection.net recommends the following preventative methods for diabetes and wound infection complications:

  1. Proper management of blood sugar levels is most important. Monitor your blood sugar frequently throughout the day and take note when your blood sugar is not at an appropriate level.
  2. Avoid smoking, drinking alcohol, or any other activities which could prove harmful to your body to lessen you chances of developing wound infections.
  3. Inspect your body for wounds daily, especially your feet. If you notice any wounds (even small scratches or blisters) immediately wash them with soap and water, treat them with an antibiotic ointment, and bandage them.
  4. Always wear footwear that is relaxed and comfortable. Avoid tight socks because they can constrict blood circulation. The case is the same for overly tight shoes, which can also put excessive pressure on your feet and toes and cause unnecessary wounds.
  5. Moisturizing foot cream should be applied daily at minimum. You would not think it, but cracks in the skin lead to many diabetic wounds, infections, and amputations.
  6. When visiting salons which attend to your nails, take care to notice if the salon is clean and the items are being disinfected. Nail files should be sterilized if they are reused between customers for example.

 

Diabetes and Wound Infection Treatment

 

If you notice that the skin around your wound is red and swollen it may be infected. Another way to tell if a wound is infected is if the skin around the wound is warmer than the skin on the opposite extremity. Drainage or a foul odor is also a definite sign of infection. If you notice that a wound may be infected, you should consult a physician immediately.

When seeking diabetes and wound infection treatment concerning a sore, your physician may perform a number of different tasks, such as:

  • Test to see if you have good blood circulation in the wound area.
  • Take a culture to see if bacteria are present.
  • Clean your wound.
  • Prescribe antibiotics.
  • In cases of foot wounds, give you a special boot to offload any pressure on your foot.