Type 2 Diabetes - What To Do When Treating Minor Wounds

World Wide Web | Type 2 Diabetes - What To Do When Treating Minor Wounds | Wounds are a serious matter for anyone, but even more so for people with Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes. The risk of infection is a much more serious matter for diabetics due to their decreased ability to fight off infection. That's why knowing how to properly care for wounds is really important.

Any time a diabetic's skin is broken, it is an invitation for infection to set in. Once an infection takes hold, it can quickly escalate into a very dangerous situation. Diabetics have lost their foot, leg and even their life as a result of an out-of-control infection.

1. Once a cut, scrape or an open blister is noticed, it requires immediate attention. This means thoroughly cleansing the area with a mild moisturising soap and water. Be careful not to scrub the area since this could cause more damage to the site.

2. Next, is to apply an antibacterial ointment to decrease the possibility of infection setting in. These types of ointments serve several key purposes:

first, they combat infection.

second, they decrease the amount of scarring that can result.

third, they help keep moisture in the area.

The area should then be covered with a gauze pad: super-adhesive tapes and pads can cause further damage to your skin.

3. Maintaining proper moisture helps reduce temperature buildup which allows the wound to heal faster and easier. The area around the wound is what should remain dry...

Burns are a good example of this. In the past, a common remedy for burns was to apply butter to it. This isn't recommended because the butter could easily contain bacteria, which would promote infection. Butter will also hold in heat and cause further tissue damage. Burns should not be left uncovered either. They need to be dressed the same as open wounds.

4. A common misconception with treating wounds is to allow air to get to it, or to allow the area to "breathe". This is not recommended because it is an invitation for infection to enter. Exposing the wound to airborne particles and dirt will do the opposite of what you need. Instead, make sure to cover the area with gauze or an appropriately sized bandage.

5. Another misconception is to apply peroxide, alcohol or iodine to the area. These are not recommended due to one very important point: not only do they kill off bad cells, but they kill healthy cells too. The only exception to this rule is using normal saline solution.

Of course, the best defense against wounds becoming infected is to maintain healthy blood sugar levels. This not only help prevent infections, but helps the body fight their severity even if they do occur.

Type 2 diabetes is no longer a condition you must just live with. It need not slowly and inevitably get worse. Now is the time to take control of the disease... and take back your life and your health.

Article Source: EzineArticles