Impaired Wound Healing
Impaired wound healing is a common problem faced by older people, individuals with certain diseases or conditions, and those with weakened immune systems. It may also occur in people who have experienced trauma or infection. When wound healing is impaired, the body’s natural ability to heal itself may be slowed or stalled. This can lead to various complications, such as infection, chronic pain, and skin problems.
Causes of Impaired Wound Healing
Impaired wound healing can be caused by various factors, including age, existing medical conditions, poor nutrition, smoking, alcohol abuse, environmental factors, medication, trauma, and certain infections. Other complications that can slow down the healing process include:
- Diabetes
- Circulatory problems
- Poor nutrition
- Medications that suppress the immune system
- Chemotherapy
- Radiation therapy
- Inappropriate dressings
- Infections
- Tissue necrosis or dead tissue in wound bed
Complications of Impaired Wound Healing
When wound healing is impaired, some of the consequences can be severe. These can include:
- Increased risk of infection
- Chronic pain
- Skin ulcers
- Scarring
- Stigmatization
- Delayed healing process
Treatment of Impaired Wound Healing
The goal of treatment is to reduce complications and improve the appearance of the wound. Treatment options may include the following:
- Debridement of dead tissue
- Infection prevention
- Moisture balance
- Special dressings
- Oral antibiotics
- Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications
- Hyperbaric oxygen therapy
- Pain management