Don’t Let Chronic Wounds Slow You Down This Fall

If you have a health condition that undermines your circulation and leaves you vulnerable to lower extremity ulcers — or the formation of slow-healing wounds on your legs, ankles, or feet — specialist care can help you keep the problem in check through:

• Chronic disease management  
• Circulation support measures
• An attentive skincare routine
• Helpful lifestyle adjustments
• Early intervention wound care

At Advanced Vascular Surgery, we offer preventive and proactive wound care to prevent complications and help you maintain an active lifestyle. Here, our team explores the challenges of chronic wound management during the cold-weather months, when cooler, drier air can facilitate easier wound formation and slower healing. 

From skin changes to wound formation     

Ischemic ulcers are slow-healing wounds that develop when skin tissues don’t receive enough oxygen-rich blood because of poor circulation. The term ischemic refers to reduced blood flow to an area of the body; these wounds typically appear on the lower extremities. 

Early warning signs of a forthcoming ulcer include skin changes like:

• Noticeable swelling
• Thinner, tissue-like skin 
• Dark, discolored areas
• Dry, itchy skin patches

Ischemic ulcers may be a sign of peripheral artery disease (PAD), which occurs when plaque buildup in lower extremity arteries (atherosclerosis) limits the flow of blood and oxygen to the legs. Diabetes can restrict blood flow in much the same way, causing “diabetic” ulcers.  

Venous stasis ulcers are another common type of ischemic ulcer. These wounds occur when chronic venous insufficiency (CVI), or dysfunction of the leg veins, leads to persistent lower extremity swelling (edema) and skin inflammation.   

Seasonal chronic wound management 

When you’re prone to ulcers, chronic wound prevention and management is a year-round commitment. This includes adjusting your care routine during the fall and winter seasons, when colder temperatures and dry air can further affect circulation and skin integrity. 

To protect against seasonal factors that can hasten wound formation and interfere with healing, focus on four areas:

1. Adjust for drier air

Drier autumn air can desiccate your skin, causing it to crack open, making wounds more likely and increasing the risk of infection and slow healing. Keep your skin hydrated by applying a fragrance-free, hypoallergenic moisturizer after bathing and throughout the day. Also, keep very dry areas, including the area around any wounds, well-moisturized.

Only bathe in warm water, as hot water can strip the protective oils from your skin. To counteract indoor dryness (especially once the furnace is on), use humidifiers in your bedroom and the most frequently used living spaces. 

2. Shield against the cold

Colder temperatures can cause blood vessels to constrict, further hindering blood flow — along with the delivery of oxygen and nutrients — in lower extremity skin. This can both set the stage for wound formation and slow the healing process for an existing wound. 

When it’s colder outside, keep any wounds covered, protected, and warm. Wear comfortable, supportive shoes and moisture-wicking socks to keep your feet dry, warm, and friction-free, especially if you have diabetes or nerve damage. If your treatment plan includes compression therapy, wear your garments to support better circulation.

3. Inspect your skin daily

Lower light levels during shorter autumn days may make it easier to miss concerning skin changes. Sit in a well-lit room and use a mirror to perform daily skin checks on your feet, ankles, and other at-risk areas. Look for new cuts, blisters, or changes in skin appearance.

4. Practice proper wound care

When a wound develops, keep it clean and covered with the appropriate dressing to prevent infection. When changing your dressing, be sure to:

• Wash your hands just before starting and right after finishing
• Wear sterile gloves and follow our team’s cleaning instructions
• Check for signs of infection, such as drainage, odor, or swelling
• See our team right away when you notice concerning changes

Regardless of the season, never use harsh soaps or chemicals, such as hydrogen peroxide, to clean a wound; doing so can damage tissue and prolong the healing process.

Maintain healthy habits going into winter

Your body’s ability to heal is strongly connected to your overall health. With the winter holidays around the corner, it’s even more important to continue practicing healthy lifestyle habits that improve circulation and support immune system function. You should:  

• Eat a balanced diet with plenty of protein, vitamins, and minerals to fuel tissue repair
• Limit sugary drinks and foods; added sugars trigger inflammation and slow healing 
• Stay hydrated; water transports vital nutrients to the wound site and removes waste
• Engage in regular, gentle exercise (i.e., walking, swimming) to improve circulation

Adapting your care routine to the changes in cold weather this fall can go a long way in helping you maintain healthy skin, support timely wound healing, and prevent complications.

Our Advanced Vascular Surgery team is here to offer expert guidance and support — schedule an appointment at your nearest office in Kalamazoo, Allegan, Battle Creek, Coldwater, Sturgis, or Three Rivers, Michigan, today.