Chronic Ulcers

Chronic ulcers -  ( chronic, recurrent or non healing oral ulcers, leg ulcers etc., )

Chronic nonhealing ulcers can be caused due to various factors recurrent trauma that impedes healing such as a sharp tooth or ulcer on the sole of foot Inadequate  blood supply due to arterial or venous causes (varicose veins) Nutritional deficiency, Smoking Loss of sensation -  sensory neuropathies, leprosy  etc., Systemic diseases such as diabetes, cardiac diseases, anemia, sometimes certain rare autoimmune diseases

What are the Do’s and Don’ts

Non diabetics suffering from chronic wounds that do not respond to long term antibiotic treatment  should seek immediate medical attention with a specialist. The ulcer should be kept clean. At the same time usage of antiseptics such as dettol, savlon should be strictly avoided. Cleaning with clean water or saline followed by application of antibiotics should be done. Over use of creams containing Gentamicin and Neomycin can cause contact sensitivity ands even delay the healing of the ulcer. Certain ulcers need repeated debridement and healing with granulation tissue. This again is done by a specialist. Areas in the body such as the foot which are subjected to constant  pressure/ friction should be treated in specials ways.