How to Understand Gangrene

People who suffer with chronic occlusive vascular disease and/or diabetes mellitus have an increase risk of developing gangrene. See your doctor at the first sign of an infected wound, especially if your circulation is compromised in any way.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Realize that gangrene causes tissue to decay and die (necrosis).

2. Understand that gangrene can be caused by a lack of blood supply to a body part.

3. Know that gangrene can be caused by bacterial infection, usually Clostridia.

4. Consider that gangrene can be a complication of bedsores, deep burns, frostbite, a blood clot, infection, severe arteriosclerosis, diabetes, occlusive vascular disease or any condition that compromises adequate circulation to a body part.

5. Figure that over the age of 40, gangrene is 50 times more frequent in diabetic men and 70 times more frequent in diabetic women.

6. Realize that "dry" gangrene means gangrene in the absence of infection. The body part that is gangrenous becomes, shriveled, dry and dark.

7. Understand that "wet" gangrene results in dead tissue caused by infection.

8. Be aware that gangrene occurs most commonly in the extremities.

Tips & Warnings

• Gangrene comes from the Greek word for "gnaw."
• Cigarette smoking should be avoided because inhalation of tar and nicotine causes a decrease in circulation, providing the tiny vessels at the ends of fingers and toes with an inadequate blood supply, which in turn sets up the perfect scenario for gangrene to develop.
• 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.

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