Conditions › Wound Healing Problems
Diagnosis and Treatment for Wound Healing Problems in London
Wound healing problems occur when the body’s natural repair process is delayed or disrupted. They may result from underlying medical conditions, infections, poor circulation, or external factors. Persistent or slow-healing wounds can increase the risk of complications such as infection, scarring, and chronic ulcers. At Skinhorizon Clinic London, our dermatology specialists provide expert assessment and personalised treatment to support optimal wound healing and recovery.
Call Us Book ConsultationUnderstanding Wound Healing Problems
The body’s wound healing process is complex, involving inflammation, tissue repair, and remodelling. Problems arise when one or more stages are disrupted, leading to delayed closure or recurrent breakdown. Wound healing problems are common in individuals with underlying medical conditions but can also occur due to external or lifestyle factors.
Causes and Risk Factors
- Infections: Bacteria can slow repair and damage tissue.
- Poor circulation: Conditions like peripheral artery disease reduce oxygen delivery to tissues.
- Diabetes: High blood sugar impairs blood flow and immune response.
- Nutritional deficiencies: Lack of protein, zinc, or vitamins delays healing.
- Immune suppression: Due to medications or chronic illness.
- Smoking and alcohol: Both reduce oxygen supply and impair repair.
- Re-injury: Repeated trauma to the wound site prevents closure.
Symptoms of Wound Healing Problems
Signs that a wound is not healing properly include:
- Failure to reduce in size after 1–2 weeks
- Persistent pain or swelling
- Discharge of pus or bad odour
- Redness spreading beyond wound edges
- Darkening or necrosis of tissue
Complications
- Chronic non-healing ulcers
- Secondary bacterial or fungal infections
- Sepsis (systemic infection)
- Excessive scarring or keloid formation
- Reduced mobility due to pain or ulceration
- Amputation risk in severe diabetic or vascular wounds
Treatment Options
Management requires identifying and treating underlying causes, alongside wound care interventions:
- Wound cleaning and debridement: Removing dead tissue to promote healing.
- Dressings: Specialised dressings to maintain moisture balance and protect against infection.
- Infection control: Topical or oral antibiotics if infection is present.
- Optimising circulation: Compression therapy, vascular surgery, or medications to improve blood flow.
- Nutritional support: Ensuring adequate protein, vitamins, and minerals.
- Advanced therapies: Laser therapy, negative pressure wound therapy, or growth factor treatments.
Prevention
While not all wound healing problems can be prevented, the following measures help reduce risk:
- Maintaining blood sugar control in diabetes
- Stopping smoking and limiting alcohol
- Protecting skin from trauma and pressure
- Following a nutrient-rich diet
- Seeking early medical help for any non-healing wounds
Your first visit — what to expect
- Assessment: Detailed history including medical conditions, medications, and wound timeline.
- Examination: Careful wound inspection for size, depth, infection, and circulation status.
- Investigations: Blood tests, swabs, or imaging if underlying causes suspected.
- Treatment plan: Tailored wound care, lifestyle changes, and advanced therapies if required.
- Follow-up: Regular monitoring to ensure progress and prevent complications.
Reviewed by: Dr Mohammad Ghazavi, Consultant Dermatologist
Skinhorizon Clinic, 4 Clarendon Terrace, Maida Vale, London W9 1BZ
Last reviewed: 22 August 2025
Concerned about a wound that isn’t healing? Our dermatology specialists provide expert care to diagnose and treat wound healing problems effectively.
Call Us Book ConsultationWound Healing Problems FAQs
How long should a wound take to heal?
Minor wounds may heal within 1–2 weeks. If a wound shows no improvement after this time, it may indicate a healing problem.
What slows down wound healing?
Factors include infection, poor circulation, diabetes, smoking, malnutrition, and immune deficiency.
Can poor wound healing be a sign of another condition?
Yes. It may indicate diabetes, vascular disease, immune issues, or nutritional deficiencies.
What foods help wounds heal faster?
Protein-rich foods, vitamin C, zinc, and adequate hydration support tissue repair and healing.
When should I see a doctor about a wound?
If the wound hasn’t healed within 2 weeks, shows signs of infection, or if you have an underlying condition like diabetes.
