HOW DOES DIABETES AFFECT WOUND HEALING?
Diabetes can significantly slow the body’s natural ability to heal wounds.
HOW DOES DIABETES AFFECT WOUND HEALING?
Diabetes can significantly slow the body’s natural ability to heal wounds.
Even a small cut, blister or surgical wound can take much longer to heal when blood sugar levels are poorly controlled.
Without prompt treatment, these wounds are also more likely to become infected or develop into chronic ulcers. That’s why regular checks, blood sugar control, and specialised wound management are essential for anyone living with diabetes.
HOWÂ DOES DIABETES SLOW WOUND HEALING?
Successful wound healing relies on healthy blood flow, oxygen delivery, a strong immune system and healthy skin. Diabetes affects all of these processes, making it harder for the body to repair damaged tissue.
High blood sugar levels can:
Together, these changes can delay healing by weeks or even months if left untreated.
REDUCED BLOOD FLOW MEANS LESS OXYGEN REACHES THE WOUNDÂ Â
Over time, diabetes can damage both large and small blood vessels, reducing circulation throughout the body. Healthy blood delivers oxygen, nutrients and immune cells that are essential for repairing damaged tissue.
Poor circulation means your wound may receive:
These are some of the main reasons diabetic wounds often heal much more slowly.
NERVE DAMAGE CAN PREVENT DIABETICS FROM FEELING AN INJURY
Many people living with diabetes develop peripheral neuropathy, a condition that reduces feeling in the feet and lower legs.
Because sensation is diminished, even minor injuries such as cuts, blisters, burns or pressure sores may go unnoticed. Without pain acting as an early warning sign, these wounds can worsen over time, increasing the risk of infection, chronic ulcers and other serious complications.
For this reason, people with diabetes should inspect their feet daily and seek prompt medical attention if they notice any new wounds or changes to their skin.
DIABETES MAY CAUSE DRY, FRAGILE SKIN
Diabetes can cause the skin to become dry, fragile and less elastic. Elevated blood sugar levels reduce the skin’s natural ability to retain moisture, making it more prone to cracking and injury.
Even small cracks or breaks in the skin can provide an entry point for bacteria, increasing the risk of infection and delaying wound healing.
Keeping your skin healthy is an important part of preventing diabetic wounds.
DIABETES MAY INCREASE THE RISK OF WOUND INFECTION
High blood sugar affects the body’s immune response, making it more difficult to fight bacteria. As a result, wounds are more likely to become infected and infections can become more severe.
Signs of a wound infection include:
Early treatment of infection is essential to prevent further complications.
HOW IMPORTANT IS BLOOD SUGAR CONTROL
Maintaining healthy blood glucose levels is one of the most effective ways to support wound healing. Research has consistently shown that well-controlled diabetes improves the body’s ability to repair tissue while reducing the risk of infection and wound complications.
Good diabetes management can:
AS A DIABETIC, WHAT CAN I DO TO HELP MY WOUND HEAL
If you have diabetes, the steps you take at home play an important role in helping your wound heal and reducing the risk of complications.
Here are some helpful tips you can do at home that may help your wound heal:
Check your body everyday – Check your body everyday for cuts, blisters, cracked skin, swelling, redness and areas under pressure such as your feet. Many people with diabetes have reduced feeling in their feet due to nerve damage (peripheral neuropathy). This means you may not notice a cut, blister or pressure injury until it has become more serious.
Follow your wound care plan – Your wound dressing has been selected to create the ideal environment for healing.
To give your wound the best chance of recovery:
- Leave dressings in place for the recommended time.
- Change dressings exactly as instructed.
- Wash your hands before and after touching your wound.
- Avoid removing dressings unnecessarily.
- Never apply creams, antiseptics or home remedies unless advised by your wound care clinician.
- If your dressing becomes loose, wet or heavily soiled, contact your healthcare provider for advice.
Stop Smoking – Smoking significantly delays wound healing by reducing blood flow and limiting the amount of oxygen reaching the wound. Quitting smoking is one of the most effective ways to improve your body’s ability to heal and reduce future complications.
Proud member of Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency, Society of Tissue Viability and Wounds Australia.
