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Gangrene symptoms depend largely on the location of the tissue damage and on several other conditions.
When gangrene affects the skin, as in the case of frostbite, symptoms can include discoloration, odiferous discharge (seeping), numbness and/or severe pain.
If gangrene happens within the body (gas gangrene) symptoms can include confusion, fever, gas beneath the tissues, general malaise and low blood pressure.
Gas gangrene usually occurs at the site a recent surgical incision or other traumatic wound. - Doctors usually diagnosis gangrene visually, especially skin gangrene. But other tests that help confirm the diagnosis may be performed. They can include an X-ray, blood tests, CT scan, tissue cultures and even surgery.
- Treating gangrene is always an emergency situation. The dead tissue must immediately be removed so that the healthy tissue can begin to heal. Depending on the location and the progression of gangrene, treatment can range from antibiotics, spending time in a hyperbaric chamber (usually reserved for gas gangrene) to emergency surgery or even amputation of an affected limb.
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Gangrene can be prevented if doctors treat it before tissue damage progresses.
Gangrene that occurs as a result of frostbite can be prevented if people avoid extreme cold exposure and/or take the necessary precautions to adequately shield themselves from extreme weather.
Those with diabetes and/or blood vessel disease need to regularly check their feet for any signs of discoloration, injury or seeping. They should seek medical help as soon as possible after discovering any of these conditions. - Those with skin gangrene that does not seep have the best prognosis, since this type does not spread quickly. Patients with gas gangrene can also look forward to a good prognosis, as long as their condition is detected early.
