A minor cut only needs a quick wash and bandage. However, for people with diabetes, a cut, wound or skin abrasion requires much more care.
Most people with diabetes have cuts and wounds that heal slower than those of non-diabetics. Also, the chance of an infection in minor wounds and cuts is increased when a person is diabetic. There is a bigger chance that a small cut can turn into a large and very serious complication.
Some Important Wound Care Tips For People With Diabetes
Manage Blood Sugar Level
It’s important to keep a close eye on your blood sugar level if you want to reduce your risk of infection from minor cuts and wounds.
The healing process of the wound can be delayed by high levels of glucose in the blood. It can even increase the risk of infection.
You need to control your blood sugar level if you are suffering from any kind of wounds. Eat healthy and diabetic-friendly foods, and have at least 30 minutes of physical activity into your daily routine.
Clean and Check the Wound
Clean the affected area thoroughly before starting any kind of treatment. Through proper cleaning, optimal healing of the wound, as well as a reduced risk of infection, can be ensured.
Cleaning the wound with clean running water will help remove as much dirt, debris, and bacteria as possible.
If you are diabetic, you need to check the wound more often, no matter how minor the wound is.
Thoroughly check the affected area for any sign of infection whenever you remove the bandage. If you notice any abnormalities, address it with your doctor immediately.
Turmeric
Due to its antiseptic and antibiotic properties, turmeric can be used to heal minor wounds and prevent infection among diabetic people. Its compound curcumin modulates collagen and decreases reactive oxygen species, thus improving wound healing.
If a minor wound, cut or abrasion is bleeding, you can apply some pure and organic turmeric powder directly on the affected area to help stop the bleeding.
You can promote wound healing, by mixing a ½ tablespoon of turmeric powder in enough coconut oil to form a paste. Apply it on the wound 2 or 3 times a day to reduce pain and prevent infection.
Olive Oil
Olive oil is very effective when it comes to wound healing. Due to its richness in omega-3 fatty acids, it can reduce inflammation, thereby speeding up the wound healing process. Its monounsaturated oleic and palmitoleic acids, in particular, help in wound healing.
Coconut Oil
Coconut oil has amazing moisturizing, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and healing properties which makes it an effective remedy to keep infections at bay and prevent scarring.
It can help diabetic people in dealing with the pain and swelling associated with wounds and abrasions.
Apply extra-virgin coconut oil on the wounded area. Put a bandage over it to seal in the moisture. Reapply the oil and change the bandage 2 or 3 times a day. Use this remedy for several days to prevent scarring.
Aloe Vera
Aloe vera has analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and soothing properties. It is rich in phytochemicals that can ease the pain, reduce inflammation, increase the moisture content in the skin and promote healing.
Cut open an aloe vera leaf and extract the gel. Apply this gel on the wound and allow it to dry on its own. Clean the area with warm water and pat it dry with a soft towel. Repeat several times a day until the wound heals completely.
Honey
Honey can be used to treat wounds in diabetic people.
This natural sweetener stimulates tissue regeneration, angiogenesis, and fibroblast growth – which all promotes rapid wound healing. Due to its osmotic effect, honey can keep the wound moist and clean. It also has an anti-inflammatory action that helps reduces pain and swelling.
Clean the affected area with plain water to remove dirt and germs. Rub honey on a wound dressing and carefully wrap it around the affected area. Change the bandage 3 or 4 times a day.
Eat A Healthy Diet
Eat foods high in protein, low in calories, low in carbohydrates, and full of nutrition.
Getting enough protein is necessary as it helps repair skin and other tissues that have been damaged. Some of its good sources are legumes, pulses, and dairy products.
Choose unsaturated fats and eat high-fiber foods like beans, whole grains, nuts, fruits, and vegetables.
Moreover, eat foods rich in vitamins C and E. They are full of potent antioxidants that can boost the immune system, thereby fighting off infection and promoting quick healing. Consume more tomatoes, strawberries, red peppers, broccoli, and oranges.
Lastly, be careful about portion sizes and try to eat 5 or 6 small meals rather than 2 or 3 large meals.
Additional Tips
- You can apply a cold compress to the affected area if there is bruising or swelling.
- Don’t try to remove calluses or warts yourself.
- Never walk barefoot even inside your home.
- Check the inside of your shoes for stones.
- Choose shoes carefully that fit both feet and don’t cause blister or sores on the feet.
- Protect your feet by letting your podiatrist handle even minor foot issues.
- Avoid smoking and consuming alcohol, as they will delay the healing process.
- Keep your body and skin hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
- Boost your protein intake to speed up recovery time.
- Do not wear clothes that can cling or rub the area and worsen the wound.
- Every day before going to bed, give your feet a thorough check for signs of blisters, sores, cuts, scrapes or any small injuries that can lead to a significant problem.
