Diabetic neuropathy can lead to burns
People who have diabetes are at greater risk for burns than the general population, and compared to non-diabetics, they can experience infections in burn wounds and heal more slowly. Burns to the feet can pose a challenge for healing and can cause difficulty walking.
Diabetic neuropathy, which is decreased sensation on the skin, can make someone more susceptible to burning by heat, cold or chemicals. Those with reduced sensation may realize they have a burn injury very late, leading to a delay in seeking medical treatment. Without treatment, any type of burn can blister, develop into an open wound, or become infected.
A burn on a diabetic”s foot is especially challenging as the skin on the sole of the foot is highly specialized and is difficult to reconstruct after a severe burn injury.
Preventing diabetic burns
Good health habits go a long way. Don”t smoke, manage your glucose levels and don”t walk barefoot. Inspect your legs, feet and toes daily. Always tell your doctor if you sustain a new injury to your skin.
Do not treat diabetic patients with hot-water bottles, electric heating pads, or hot water soaks. Even walking on a hot surface can lead to burns. Prevent contact with snow, ice, or exposure to frigid air for long periods, and ensure adequate protection from frostbite. Avoid exposure to harsh household chemicals such as bleach and ammonia or products containing capsaicin such as chili peppers.
Treatment for diabetic burns
As with other wounds experienced by diabetics, diabetic burns are slow to heal, and thus are at more risk for complications, infection and amputation. Bed rest, foot elevation, regular wound cleansing and dressings and use of an off-loading device to relieve pressure on the affected area are part of basic treatment.
Omeza® Collagen Matrix is indicated for the management of wounds including diabetic burns.
In case studies of chronic wounds such as venous leg ulcers, sickle cell ulcers, diabetic foot ulcers and others, Omeza treatments were shown to be effective and safe.
The Omeza® treatments address the key components required for effective chronic wound care, including periwound care, removal of biofilm and in-wound bioburden, inflammation and topical pain management.
“Patient with unmanaged diabetes had non-healing burn site. Sharp debridement on first visit, Omeza products applied and given to patient for home treatment during dressing changes. Burn almost completely healed in two months. Continued use of skin protectant after wound closure.” – Supervised case study of diabetic burn closure.
