Author: Ljubica Barbulović, MPharm

An open wound is a type of injury that involves the outer, and then the inner part of the tissue, and usually spreads to the surrounding skin. If this type of injury is not treated properly, it can lead to severe infections, gangrene, and the worst outcome – amputation of a part or even an entire leg or arm. Therefore, it is extremely important not to ignore such injuries, but to act immediately.

Read how they are treated and what is the best medicine for open wounds and fast skin healing.

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Types of open wounds

Before we recommend the best medicine for open wounds, it is important to learn more about them so we can treat them properly. There are 4 types of open wounds:

  • Abrasions (scrapes) – occur when the skin rubs or scrapes against a rough surface. This type of wound usually does not bleed much, but it needs to be cleaned and treated to prevent infection.
  • Lacerations (cuts) – deeper incised wounds where the skin is torn (usually during accidents with knives, machines, or tools). They bleed profusely and quickly.
  • Punctures – small superficial, but deep damages, most often the result of a sharp object (nail, needle). Although they often do not bleed much externally, they can seriously damage internal organs and carry a high risk of tetanus.
  • Avulsion – complete or partial detachment of the skin and underlying tissue (explosions, tearing, animal bite). These wounds bleed very quickly and profusely and require immediate surgical help.
Scrape on the knee

Symptoms of an infected wound and risk factors

An infected wound occurs when pathogenic microorganisms (most commonly the bacteria Staphylococcus aureus) populate the wound tissue. The body defends itself against pathogens, leading to inflammation. Typical symptoms of an infected wound are: swelling, severe redness that spreads, pulsating pain, temperature around the wound, yellow or green discharge (pus), and an unpleasant odor.

Risk factors that make healing difficult include: poor circulation, obesity, weak immunity, diabetes, and poor hygiene.

Phases of wound healing

  1. Preventing bleeding (hemostasis): By forming a blood clot (coagulation), blood loss is prevented, and a scab is created as a natural protective barrier.
  2. Forming protection (inflammatory phase): Blood vessels constrict, and platelets and white blood cells form a plug to clean the wound of bacteria and prevent infection.
  3. Renewal (proliferative phase): Oxygen-rich red blood cells come to the wound site, and the body produces collagen to create new tissue.
  4. Wound maturation (remodeling): Although the wound is closed, it is still healing, the tissue is strengthened, and the affected area usually feels tight and itchy.

Consequences of untreated wounds (Chronic wounds and sepsis)

When an open wound is neglected or not treated properly, it turns into a chronic state and can cause serious problems such as: bedsores (decubitus), diabetic foot ulcers, and arterial/venous ulcers. If bacteria from the infected wound enter the bloodstream, sepsis can occur – a life-threatening condition that requires immediate hospital resuscitation.

Best preparations, dressings, and sprays for fast healing

Proper wound care requires disinfection, optimal moisture, and protection from bacteria. We highlight the most effective preparations for the treatment of all types of open wounds and bedsores from our offer:

1. Natural disinfection and protection: Silver Zeolite Spray (100 ml)

This spray represents an innovative approach to wound care. Ionic silver and zeolite act as a powerful shield against bacteria, prevent infections, and significantly accelerate the regeneration of damaged tissue, without stinging or irritation.

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2. For chronic wounds and bedsores: Medihoney Apinate dressing

When it comes to deep wounds, bedsores, and diabetic foot, dressings based on medical manuka honey are irreplaceable. They naturally clean the wound, draw out toxins and dead tissue, and create an ideal moist environment for the rapid formation of new cells.

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3. Wound edge protection: Cinkderm paste

Zinc paste is a must-have in the home pharmacy. It effectively dries wet wounds (like those from herpes or blisters), creates a protective film that prevents the penetration of bacteria, and is ideal for treating primary bedsores and rashes.

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4. Against itching and tightness: Finosens spray

In the final phase of healing, when new tissue is formed, the skin becomes extremely dry, itches intensely, and feels tight. Finosens spray instantly cools and soothes, preventing the patient from scratching and reopening the wound.

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Pharmacist's advice

Proper wound care is half the cure! Always wash your hands before touching a wound. For chronic wounds and bedsores, it is crucial to regularly change the patient's position to relieve pressure. Using dressings like Medihoney Apinate significantly reduces the need for frequent dressing changes, as the dressing can remain on the wound for up to 7 days, giving the tissue the peace it needs to heal.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Should the wound be left to "breathe" without a bandage?
It depends on the wound. Minor scrapes heal quickly in the air, but deeper, open wounds and cuts must be protected with a sterile dressing or plaster to maintain optimal moisture for the creation of new cells and prevent bacteria from entering.

2. Can I use folk remedies on open wounds?
Although chamomile or honey have antimicrobial properties, applying unsterile foods (like garlic or cabbage) to a deep, bleeding wound can cause severe infections. Use exclusively medically sterilized preparations and dressings for deep wounds.

» Education and infection prevention

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