How Uncontrolled Diabetes Affects Wound Healing

By: Irina Vella, MSN, APRN, FNP-BC, WCC

Diabetes and uncontrolled blood glucose levels can have a detrimental impact on wound healing. Understanding the connection between diabetes and impaired wound recovery can promote better adherence to treatment plans for managing blood sugar levels in diabetic patients. When blood sugar levels are elevated, the body's ability to heal wounds becomes compromised, leading to slower healing times and an increased risk of complications.

The Role of Blood Sugar in Wound Healing

The body’s natural wound healing process relies on an efficient supply of blood, oxygen, and nutrients to the affected area ¹. However, in patients with uncontrolled diabetes, high blood sugar levels damage blood vessels and restrict blood flow. This impaired circulation deprives wounds of essential nutrients and oxygen, slowing the healing process and increasing the likelihood of infections ¹.

Elevated blood sugar also affects the immune system ². In patients with diabetes, immune cells such as macrophages do not function properly, reducing the body's ability to fight infections and repair damaged tissues ². As a result, even small wounds, such as a blister or a minor cut, can become a serious health issue if not properly managed.

Diabetic Foot Ulcers and Peripheral Neuropathy

One of the most common complications of uncontrolled diabetes is the development of diabetic foot ulcers ^{3, 4}. These ulcers are often the result of peripheral neuropathy, a condition caused by prolonged high blood sugar levels that damage the nerves, particularly in the extremities like the feet.

Peripheral neuropathy reduces sensation in the feet, making it difficult for patients to detect minor injuries such as cuts, blisters, or sores 4 . Without treatment, these small wounds can worsen, leading to ulcers that are slow to heal and prone to infection. If left untreated, diabetic foot ulcers may require surgical intervention or, in severe cases, amputation ^{4, 3}.

Monitoring Blood Glucose at Home

Managing diabetes effectively starts with regular monitoring of blood glucose levels. For patients in Jacksonville, Florida, mobile wound care services by Restore First Health offer a comprehensive approach to treating diabetic foot ulcers. While treating diabetic wounds, wound care providers can track A1C levels and monitor trends in blood glucose levels from the comfort of home using point of care A1C testing. A1C point-of-care testing allows healthcare professionals to measure a patient’s average blood sugar levels over the past 2-3 months, giving a more comprehensive view of how well diabetes is being managed.

The Importance of Care Coordination

Diabetes management requires a team-based approach to promote wound healing and prevent amputation ^3,4. Frequent monitoring of A1C levels allows for timely care coordination with the patient’s interdisciplinary care team if adjustments to treatment plans are needed.

Restore First Health’s mobile wound care providers collaborate closely with primary care physicians, endocrinologists, vascular specialists, infectious disease experts, and diabetes educators to deliver comprehensive care, ensuring blood sugar levels are well-managed and the wound healing process is optimized.

References:

1. Swoboda, L., & Held, J. (2022). Impaired wound healing in diabetes. Journal of Wound Care, 31(10), 882–885. https://doi.org/10.12968/jowc.2022.31.10.882
2. Aitcheson, S. M., Frentiu, F. D., Hurn, S. E., Edwards, K., & Murray, R. Z. (2021). Skin Wound Healing: Normal Macrophage Function and Macrophage Dysfunction in Diabetic Wounds. Molecules, 26(16), 4917. https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules26164917
3. Swoboda, L., & Held, J. (2022). Impaired wound healing in diabetes. Journal of Wound Care, 31(10), 882–885. https://doi.org/10.12968/jowc.2022.31.10.882
4. Voelker, R. (2023). What Are Diabetic Foot Ulcers? JAMA. https://doi.org/10.1001/jama.2023.17291