Leg gangrene is a condition that occurs when tissue dies. It is caused by a cessation of blood supply due to an underlying illness, injury, and / or infection. Toes and limbs are affected more often. There are various types of gangrene, and all of them require immediate medical attention.
Gangrene of the feet: causes
Blood plays a very important role in human health. Not only does it transport oxygen and nutrients throughout the body to nourish cells, it also provides antibodies to fight diseases and infections. When blood cannot circulate freely, cells begin to die, infection and gangrene can develop. Any condition that affects blood flow increases your risk of gangrene. These conditions include:
- Diabetes.
- Atherosclerosis.
- Peripheral artery disease.
- Smoking.
- Injuries or injuries.
- Raynaud's phenomenon (a condition in which the blood vessels that supply the skin periodically narrow).
Gangrene of the legs: types
There are two main types of gangrene:
1. Dry gangrene of the legs. More common in people with diabetes and autoimmune diseases. It usually affects the arms and legs. It develops when blood flow to the affected area is disrupted, usually as a result of poor blood circulation. Unlike other types, infection is usually not present with dry gangrene. However, it can lead to wet gangrene.
2. Wet gangrene. Almost always involves infection. Damage after burns or injuries with crushed or compressed wounds can quickly cut off the blood supply from the affected area, causing tissue death and increasing the risk of infection. It is called "wet" due to purulent processes. Infection from it can spread rapidly throughout the body, making wet gangrene a very serious and potentially life-threatening condition if left untreated.
Gangrene of the feet: symptoms
You may notice the following symptoms at the site of dry gangrene :
- Dry and wrinkled skin that changes color from blue to black.
- Cold and numb skin.
- Pain may or may not be present.
Symptoms of wet gangrene may include:
- Swelling and pain at the site of infection.
- Change in skin color from red to brown and black.
- Bubbles or sores that have a foul smelling discharge (pus).
- Fever and feeling sick.
Gangrene of the feet: warning
If gangrene infection enters the bloodstream, you may develop sepsis and septic shock. It can be life threatening if not treated immediately. Symptoms of sepsis may include:
- Low blood pressure
- Heart palpitations.
- Shortness of breath.
- Change in body temperature.
- Rave.
- Pain throughout the body and rash.
- Cold, clammy and pale skin.
If you suspect sepsis, go to the hospital immediately.
Foot gangrene treatment
Includes removal of dead tissue, treatment and prevention of the spread of infection, treatment of the condition that caused gangrene. The sooner it is started, the greater the chance of recovery. Depending on the type of disease, treatment may include:
1. Surgical intervention: treatment of a wound, removal of dead tissue to prevent the spread of infection. Amputation may be required in some situations.
2. Remediation by larvae: believe it or not, larvae still play an important role in modern medicine. They help in a non-surgical way to remove dead tissue. When used for the treatment of gangrene, the larvae of flies (specially bred in the laboratory, therefore they are sterile) are placed on a wound where they absorb dead and infected tissues without harming healthy tissues. They also help fight infection and speed healing by secreting substances that kill bacteria.
3. Antibiotics. Antibiotics are used to treat and prevent infections. They are used, as a rule, in the form of intravenous injections.
4. Oxygen therapy. May be used in some cases of wet gangrene associated with diabetes or peripheral arterial disease. During treatment, the patient is placed in a special chamber filled with oxygen at a higher pressure. The theory goes that this high level of oxygen saturates the blood and stimulates the healing of dying tissues.
Gangrene, a photo of which can be found in any medical guide, is a serious disease that requires immediate medical attention. The sooner treatment is started, the greater the chance of recovery. If you have unexplained pain in any area of your body, a fever, a wound that heals slowly, or you notice a change in skin color, contact the emergency department immediately.