Why Diabetic Skin Takes Longer to Heal
Diabetic Skin Wounds

Why Diabetic Skin Takes Longer to Heal

Introduction

If you live with diabetes, the management of skin wounds poses a unique challenge. Diabetic individuals often experience delays in the skin healing process. Wounds, such as minor cuts can escalate quickly to serious ulcers and infections. 

This has prompted extensive research into the mechanisms behind slow healing observed in diabetics.

Main Factors for Delayed Skin Healing

Blood Vessels Do Not Work Optimally

A primary factor in the delayed healing of diabetic wounds is the impaired function of blood vessels. This is known as diabetic angiopathy. 

Diabetics high levels of blood glucose can damage the small blood vessels that supply oxygen and nutrients to your skin. As a result, the delivery of essential components that are necessary for the healing process is compromised. This leads to slower wound closure and increased susceptibility to infections.

Nerve Damage Is Sometimes Present

Diabetes is often accompanied by neuropathy, a condition characterized by nerve damage. Diabetic neuropathy can impair the sensation in your extremities, making you less aware—or in some cases, completely unaware—of minor injuries or wounds. 

As a consequence, any untreated wounds you may have usually progress to more severe ulcers, further complicating your healing process.

The Immune System Is Oftentimes Compromised

The affection of small blood vessels in the body results in the damage of immune cell function. 

When these cells are unable to fight infections in your body, diabetic wounds are more susceptible to bacterial colonization, leading to chronic inflammation, delayed healing, and in severe cases, infection.

High Glucose Levels Are Not Helpful Either

In addition to vascular and neuropathic complications, the trademark high blood glucose levels which are characteristic of diabetes create an unfavorable environment for proper wound healing. 

High levels of glucose in your bloodstream can disrupt various cellular processes involved in tissue repair, including inflammation, proliferation, and remodeling, just to name a few. Hence, the normal sequence of events required for effective wound healing in your organism disrupts, prolonging your recovery periods.

Additionally, the reaction of sugar with proteins leads to alterations that complicate the elasticity and function of the skin, hindering the migration of cells necessary for wound closure. When this happens, you are in the presence of advanced glycation end products (AGEs), better known as AGEs.

Mitigating the Risks

Addressing the challenges associated with diabetic skin wounds requires a comprehensive approach that includes preventive measures and quick action.

For instance, adequate diabetic wound care is essential, involving regular inspection of the feet and prompt treatment of any injuries or wounds. 

Additionally, the use of a specialized diabetic wound dressing can help create an optimal environment for healing, promoting moisture balance, and preventing infections. Also, diabetic wounds, diabetic itchy skin, and others can all be alleviated with several wound care and eczema products we have created at Lavior to specifically address these circumstances you may face in your life.

Here we also have some tips for you to successfully manage wound healing inconveniences:

  • Control your diet
  • Exercise frequently and consistently
  • Use medication when required
  • Manage your blood glucose levels effectively with constant supervision
  • Apply the diverse gamut of Lavior products crafted for your needs