Page 24 - Scene Magazine 42-06 June 2017

Health Scene
Make healthy skin one of your summer essentials.
BY DR. TROY PASCOE, Medical Dir., Bronson Wound Center & Hyperbaric Medicine
Most of us look forward to the warm- ing sun and gentle breezes of summer. But, our exposure to these elements can also leave your skin more vulnerable to injury. As your body’s crucial barri- er against infection, any damage to the skin can leave your body open to attack. Whether caused by an accident, disease or due to a surgical procedure, it is im- portant to be aware of how wounds are healing.
For most people, wound healing hap- pens quickly and without worry. But for others, wounds can take much longer to heal or don’t heal at all.
We mark Wound Care Awareness Week the first full week of June each year. The week is focused on raising awareness of chronic wounds and the advanced treatments available for those who struggle with non-healing wounds.
It is estimated that chronic wounds af- fect 6.7 million people in the U.S. With an aging population and increasing rates of diseases and conditions such as dia- betes and obesity, this number is grow- ing each year. The Centers for Disease Control reports that 29.1 million people or 9.3 percent of the population have di- abetes, with over a quarter of those in- dividuals undiagnosed. Lifestyle factors and medicines can also complicate the wound healing process.
Neuropathy is another medical con- dition that can affect both the awareness and prompt, proper care of wounds.
It is estimated that chronic wounds affect 6.7 million people in the U.S.
Neuropathy is the loss of feeling, espe- cially in the hands and feet, caused by damage to the nerves. Because of this nerve damage, people with neuropathy can be unaware of developing wounds until they become serious.
According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Dis- eases between 60-70 percent of people living with diabetes have some form of neuropathy. It is important for those with diabetes to check their feet on a daily ba- sis. If unable to do so themselves, they should enlist the help of a family mem- ber or friend.
Regardless of whether or not you are prone to developing non-healing wounds or are living with diabetes, everyone’s skin can benefit from extra care and at- tention during the summer. Here are a few tips that can help you better care for your skin and pay attention to the health of this mighty yet delicate organ.
• Check your skin daily for dryness, cracks, sores, bruises, reddened areas, and blisters. Have someone help you if you are unable to do it yourself.
• Treat the skin gently without stretch- ing, tugging or pulling on it unneces- sarily.
• Cleanse the skin with a mild, pH-bal- anced product.
• Use warm to the touch (elbow or in- ner wrist) water for cleansing/bathing.
• Rinse well. Make sure no soap is left on the skin.
• Dry all skin folds and creases.
• Moisturize the skin after cleansing. You may leave a light film of mois-
ture on the skin just prior to applying
lotion.
• Lubricate overly dry, sensitive skin
with a heavier barrier cream. These specialty creams, available at most pharmacies, will help to retain moisture and provide protection for sensitive skin that is prone to damage.
• Wear soft clothing.
• Drink plenty of water.
Lastly, don’t suffer with wounds that don’t heal. Learn more about chronic wounds and the care options that are available.
People with wounds that have not improved with traditional methods of treatment may benefit from a visit to the Bronson Wound Center & Hyperbaric Medicine in Battle Creek. Learn more about the wound and hyperbaric services provided at bronsonhealth.com/wound.
DR. TROY PASCOE...
specializes in internal medicine with a partic- ular interest in hyperbaric medicine and wound treat-
ment. He is the medical director at the Bronson Wound Center & Hyperbaric Medicine department in Battle Creek. He received his medical degree from Wayne State University and completed his res- idency at Hurley Medical Center, Michigan State University. Pascoe is also affiliated with the Bron- son Medical Group Battle Creek multi-specialty practice.