What are the signs of poor wound healing?

A wound that is healing normally is red, warm, shiny, and possibly swollen. However, in some cases, healing is slow or difficult and presents certain distinct symptoms that should not be taken for granted.

• A change in color: all wounds of a color other than red/pink are not healing normally. Indeed, when a wound turns black, it means that there is necrotic tissue on the wound bed (non-viable tissue due to reduced blood supply), which hinders healing. If the wound has a yellowish appearance, this indicates the presence of fibrinous tissue. This tissue is avascular and healing will only continue when it is removed. Moreover, these necrotic tissues can also harbor pathogenic microorganisms. On the other hand, if it is green, then your wound has contracted an infection that slows the healing process.

• An unusual odor: wounds should not have a noticeable smell, but if they emit a foul odor, it is a sign of a wound that is not healing. This distinct and unpleasant smell indicates dead tissue or an infection by anaerobic bacteria.

• A noticeable swelling: if you observe that the area near the wound swells after the initial days, this is an indication of a bacterial infection, venous insufficiency, deep vein thrombosis, or a lymphatic disorder.

• Continuous bleeding: Bleeding is a natural phenomenon, but if the blood continues to flow after a certain period of time or despite direct pressure applied to the wound, you should consult a healthcare professional.

• A compromise to the wound's perimeter: Darkening of the skin around a wound's edges may indicate that the tissues are not receiving enough oxygen and are dying. Similarly, if the surrounding skin continues to be red, inflamed, and swollen, even after 4 to 5 days post-injury, this is a telltale sign of a fungal infection (intertrigo). Indeed, this area is prone to maceration and is the result of a combination of friction and stagnant moisture.

• Wound Discharge: An aqueous and clear yellow fluid is normal at the beginning of the healing process, but a purulent, thick, yellowish/greenish discharge with a pungent odor is a sign of a bacterial, viral, or fungal infection at the wound site.

• An escalating pain: It is normal to experience pain during the initial stages of the healing process or intermittently related to the removal of the dressing for example. However, prolonged or severe pain, or pain that persists even after the administration of a painkiller, is a sign of an underlying condition, such as ischemia, neuropathy, tissue edema, chronic tissue damage, or an infection.

• Fever: after an injury, it is normal for a patient to have a slight fever. However, a high and persistent fever, which may be associated with body aches, is a sign of infection.

If you are suffering from a wound that shows no signs of improvement or progress within the usual timeframe of four weeks, due to several underlying causes, and you exhibit any of these symptoms, do not hesitate to consult a doctor so they can assess the severity of the injury and propose a treatment option. If left untreated, chronic wounds can lead to complications. Even minor injuries can become infected and turn out to be far worse than the initial wound.