By Dr. Christopher Otiko
I’ve spent about 25 years working with people who suffer from all sorts of wounds and consider myself an expert. I often encounter non-healing wounds and that is why I created Tetracyte, ViaDerma’s, revolutionary wound-fighting drug.
Most cuts and scrapes heal within a few days or weeks. But some wounds linger, hurt more, and get worse over time.
A wound that refuses to heal could be a warning sign. It’s your body’s version of the check engine light.
Here are four reasons why that happens — and what you can do about it.
Poor Blood Circulation
Your body needs a steady flow of blood to heal. Blood delivers oxygen, nutrients, and immune cells to the site of injury.
But if you have diabetes, peripheral artery disease (PAD), or you’re a smoker, your circulation may be impaired. These conditions restrict blood flow — especially to your legs and feet — slowing down cell repair and immune response.
If your wound is cold, discolored, or numb, poor circulation could be part of the problem.
Infection
Infection is one of the most common reasons a wound fails to heal.
Bacteria can enter the wound and multiply, triggering inflammation and hindering the growth of new tissue.
- Signs of infection include:
- Redness or warmth
- Swelling or tenderness
- Pus or foul odor
Fever or chills
Chronic wounds often develop biofilms — slimy layers of bacteria that resist antibiotics. These stubborn infections require targeted treatment to clear.
Underlying Medical Conditions
A non-healing wound could be a symptom of other health issues.
Conditions such as diabetes, autoimmune disorders, kidney disease, and even obesity can interfere with healing. High blood sugar, in particular, damages blood vessels and weakens immune response. This is why many diabetics suffer from non-healing wounds.
Many chronic wounds we see are actually secondary symptoms of unmanaged health conditions. To treat the wound, you must treat the whole patient.
Improper Wound Care
Sometimes the issue isn’t what’s happening inside your body — it’s how you’re treating the wound.
Common mistakes include:
- Not cleaning the wound properly
- Using the wrong type of bandage
- Overusing hydrogen peroxide or alcohol
- Ignoring medical advice or delaying treatment
And no — wounds don’t need to “breathe.” They actually heal best in a moist, clean, and protected environment.
A Breakthrough Solution: Tetracyte
For tough-to-heal wounds, innovative treatments like Tetracyte can make a big difference.
Tetracyte is a topical antimicrobial designed to accelerate healing and fight infection, especially in chronic wounds, diabetic ulcers, and those exposed to biofilms.
Tetracyte delivers antibiotics directly to the wound site and forms a barrier to prevent reinfection. We’ve seen remarkable improvements, even in cases that wouldn’t heal with traditional care.
When to Seek Help
If your wound hasn’t improved in two weeks or if it’s getting worse, it’s time to call a doctor. Chronic wounds can lead to serious complications, such as infection, tissue damage, or even amputation.
Early intervention can prevent long-term problems. Prevention is always better than a cure.
Want to learn more about wound healing and advanced treatments like Tetracyte? Visit viaderma.com or speak with your healthcare provider today.
