As we age, our skin becomes thinner, loses its elasticity and capacity to retain moisture, and is generally more fragile. But proper care will help prevent common problems including dryness, bruising and infection.
Daily activities to keep skin healthy:
– Check your skin, including the bottom of your feet and between your toes, for dryness, cracks, sores, bruises, reddened areas and blisters.
– Drink an adequate amount of water and eat foods that are rich in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants.
– Avoid smoking and sun exposure without proper protection.
– Cleanse your skin with a mild, pH-balanced product. Fragrance-free is best.
– Moisturize your skin within three minutes after taking a bath or shower with a product that contains natural ingredients like vitamin A, vitamin E and aloe.
Sometimes developing a sore or wound is unavoidable. It is estimated that nearly seven million Americans suffer from chronic non-healing wounds. A non-healing wound can cause pain, disability, prolonged hospitalizations and impaired quality of life—and may need specialized wound care.
What is specialized wound care?
A wound fails to heal if the body has stopped providing the necessary requirements of blood flow, oxygen and nutrients. When this occurs, a specialized wound care team can assess the severity of the wound, identify the underlying reasons and develop a comprehensive treatment plan.
When should I seek specialized wound care?
If your wound has not completely healed in four weeks, you may need specialized wound care. Seek medical attention sooner if you have health problems that prevent wound healing, such as diabetes, neuropathy, a weakened immune system, venous or arterial insufficiency, significant swelling, compromised nutrition, or an infection.
Talk to your primary care physician and ask if a referral for specialized wound care might be the right option for you.
ERIC HAYES
For additional information:
Advanced Wound Center
601 McPhee Rd, Olympia
360.570.3032
capitalmedical.com