How to Prevent Gangrene

Gangrene is much easier to prevent than to treat. Every effort should be made to keep gangrene from beginning. Be gentle and protective with tissue that is compromised by disease.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• Warm Clothes
• Nail Files

1. Understand that if your circulation is impaired or if you are diabetic, you are more prone to developing gangrene because your blood supply is inadequate to repair damaged tissue.
2. Take care of your feet if your circulation is impaired or you are diabetic. Inspect your feet for redness, blisters, abrasions or cuts every day, and avoid walking barefoot. Cut your toenails straight across to avoid cutting yourself, and file calluses with an emery board rather than clipping them. Wear comfortable, loose-fitting shoes, and see a podiatrist regularly.
3. Avoid frostbite. Wear adequate protective clothing in cold weather, especially on fingers and toes.
4. Have your blood sugar checked regularly, especially if you have a family history of diabetes.
5. Monitor your blood pressure regularly, especially if you have a family history of hypertension.
6. Avoid smoking and excessive drinking of alcohol, both of which reduce circulation to the extremities.
7. Talk to your doctor about taking a drug that will improve your circulation, if you have a compromised circulatory system.

Tips & Warnings

• Encourage good circulation throughout your body, especially in your extremities. This means lots of cardiovascular exercise (if OK'd by your doctor), and maintaining a healthy body weight and normal blood pressure.
• See your doctor for deep wounds, and/or wounds that do not heal quickly, or for any excessive trauma to the skin, like burns, frostbite, or crushing-type injuries.
• If you have any questions or concerns, contact a physician or other health care professional before engaging in any activity related to health and diet. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment.