How Diabetes Affects Wound Healing and What You Can Do About It

By Jeff Russell (President, DWCC)

January 20th, 2025

A small cut or blister might seem harmless, but not for someone with diabetes. It can quickly escalate into a serious health concern for that person. Do you know why? Diabetes not only affects blood sugar levels, but it also impairs your body’s ability to heal itself. A minor wound can suddenly become a stubborn challenge and invite infections and complications. You can also empower your journey of healing with the right strategies. So, let’s explore how diabetes impacts wound healing and discover actionable steps to stay ahead of the curve.

How Diabetes Impacts Wound Healing

1. Reduced Blood Circulation

Diabetes can damage your blood vessels. It leads reduced blood flow to the extremities. Poor circulation slows the delivery of oxygen and nutrients needed for tissue repair.

2. Weakened Immune System

Increased blood sugar levels impair the immune system. It makes it harder for the body to fight off infections. So, it increases the risk of wound infections and delays recovery.

3. Nerve Damage (Neuropathy)

Nerve damage, which is caused by diabetes, can lead to a loss of sensation. It especially occurs in the feet. This makes it easy to overlook minor injuries, allowing wounds to worsen before they’re noticed.

4. Chronic Inflammation

Diabetes often triggers chronic inflammation, which hinders the wound-healing process by disrupting tissue repair and regeneration.

What You Can Do to Promote Wound Healing

1. Control Your Blood Sugar Levels

• Keeping blood sugar within the target range is critical for wound healing.
• You must work closely with your healthcare provider to monitor and manage your glucose levels.

2. Practice Daily Foot Care

• You should inspect your feet daily for cuts, blisters, or redness.
• Keep your feet clean, moisturized, and protected with well-fitting shoes.

3. Clean and Protect Wounds

• Gently clean wounds with saline or clean water to prevent infection.
• Use doctor-recommended dressings to keep the wound moist and protected.

4. Eat a Balanced Diet

• Focus on foods rich in protein, vitamins C and A, and zinc to support tissue repair.
• Stay hydrated to improve circulation and nutrient delivery.

5. Improve Circulation

• Remember you should do regular physical activity, such as walking, which can improve blood flow.
• Try to avoid smoking, as it constricts blood vessels and reduces circulation.

6. Seek Professional Care

• If you see a wound that shows signs of infection or doesn’t heal within a few days, consult a healthcare provider or wound care specialist.
• You should remember that advanced treatments like negative pressure wound therapy or hyperbaric oxygen therapy should be necessary for chronic wounds.

When to Be Extra Cautious

For people with diabetes, any wound—even a small one—should be treated seriously. You should seek immediate medical attention if you notice:

• Increased redness, swelling, or warmth around the wound.
• Pus, odor, or other signs of infection.
• Persistent pain or a wound that isn’t healing.

Diabetes may pose challenges to wound healing if you don’t take it seriously. However, with proactive care and attention, you can still minimize risk and promote recovery. Once you manage your blood sugar levels, practice proper wound care, and seek timely medical assistance, you can significantly improve your body’s healing ability.

Don’t let diabetes slow you down—stay vigilant, take action, and empower yourself with the knowledge and care needed to heal and thrive. After all, your health is in your hands!