Everyone has experienced some type of wound at some point in their lives, be it a scratch, scrape, or cut that broke the skin. If you are healthy, the wound will generally heal relatively quickly as long as it is kept clean and clear of infection. However, there are some wounds that are a bit more serious in nature and require medical attention. Whatever the case may be, the wound healing process can be a bit complex. As you go through this process, it helps to keep a few things in mind to expedite the healing of your wound and help ward off infections.
Apply Honey to Your Wound
It may sound a bit strange, but research shows that applying a bit of honey to your wound can expedite the overall healing process. The honey can also help to minimize swelling and reduce the overall appearance of scarring. Research further shows that honey contains certain antibacterial properties that can fight against numerous bacterial infections, including MRSA. Keep in mind, though, that not any type of honey will do. You should only apply raw, unprocessed honey or Manuka honey to your wound. Otherwise, you may do more harm than good. Also, make sure to request the approval of your doctor before using honey in your home medical regimen.
Increase Your Protein Intake
In order to ensure that your wound heals properly and quickly, you need to make sure that you are consuming plenty of proteins. Primarily, proteins are beneficial during the wound healing process because they help in the rebuilding and repair of your skin, muscle, and other body tissues. High-protein foods include eggs, almonds, chicken breast, oats, cottage cheese, broccoli, and lean beef, just to name a few.
Drink Plenty of Fluids
Though you are more at risk of dehydration during the summer, it can occur at any time of year, and the older you are, the more at risk you are at suffering from dehydration. When the body does not have enough fluid in it, the skin becomes less elastic and more fragile. If you are not actively consuming fluids, then the body is unable to transport oxygen or communicate with cells the way that it should, which can negatively impact the wound healing process. To help prevent dehydration, make sure that you have some type of drink easily accessible at all times. If it is easier to drink with a straw, then do so. Consider consuming fruits and other foods that are high in water content, such as apples, soup, and jello.
For more tips, contact a company like Elkhorn Foot and Ankle Clinic PLLC.