If an ulcer’s condition deteriorates, mobile wound and ulcer care services can offer vital medical assistance. Identifying the symptoms that show that an ulcer needs professional evaluation is crucial to access the right treatment. With early intervention, Atlanta patients can avoid severe complications and experience a more comfortable healing process. Let’s assess the most important warning signs to look for.
What Are the 5 Signs Your Ulcer Needs Professional Wound Treatment?
Wound care professionals support patients who are recovering from various conditions, including arterial and diabetic foot ulcers, leg sores, bedsores and other tissue injuries. If you notice any of the following signs, do not hesitate to contact an at-home provider for assistance.
1. The Ulcer Is Infected
Look for redness, swelling and increased warmth around the wound site. An infection can also cause throbbing pain and may be accompanied by fever. Without treatment, infections can spread to deeper tissues and lead to difficulties in the healing process. Treating an infection as soon as possible supports healing and reduces the chance of complications.
2. Healing Is Delayed
Ulcers will typically show signs of improvement after one or two weeks. For example, healthy skin will begin to form and the ulcer will start to scab over. If the wound has failed to improve (or has stayed the same after 2–4 weeks), the wound is more than likely in need of professional intervention. Mobile wound care services will promote ulcer healing by targeting the underlying issues.
3. The Ulcer’s Appearance Has Changed
During the healing process, changes to the ulcer’s appearance are to be expected—yet changes may also indicate a problem. If the tissue color turns a darker shade or becomes black, it often suggests necrosis (dead tissue), whereas pale tissue may be a sign of poor circulation. Watch for overly dry skin around the ulcer, as this also may cause issues with healing.
4. You Experience More Pain From the Ulcer
While ulcers often cause mild discomfort as they heal, increased pain is a sign that the ulcer needs to be assessed by a professional wound care service. This type of pain can vary, ranging from tenderness to a stabbing sensation, and in more severe cases the discomfort may also spread to surrounding areas.
5. The Infection Is Spreading
Pay attention to signs of infection advancing into healthy tissue surrounding the wound. The area around the ulcer may become increasingly inflamed—watch for expanding redness and swelling. Red streaks extending from the wound site are a particularly serious warning sign that requires immediate medical attention from a mobile ulcer care provider.
Mobile Ulcer Care and Wound Management in Atlanta
At Preferred Healthcare we provide at-home services for leg ulcers, bedsores, diabetic ulcers and other wounds. Our specialists evaluate and treat ulcers at home and in healthcare facilities. Call (404) 919-5708 or schedule an appointment today.
