The ‘hidden affliction’: could you have a chronic wound?

We’ve all managed to hurt ourselves at some stage of our lives (fingers in the car door anyone?)

But Wounds Australia says many people don’t realise they have a chronic wound or know to seek treatment.

A chronic wound is defined as cuts or breaks in the skin that don’t show signs of healing within 30 days or that keep recurring – and people aged over 65 are most at risk, particularly those receiving the Aged Pension.

Why? Research shows the costs for wound management – such as out-of-pocket expenses, medications, and dressings – are between $86 to $340 per month depending on the severity of the wound – and those on a lower income may put off seeking medical treatment.

Wounds costing $3 billion a year

But Wounds Australia says chronic wounds can be treated – preventing further health issues and saving on money.

David Templeman lived with a chronic wound without realising for most of his life, after injuring his leg playing football in 1970. His leg continued to bother him, but it wasn’t until February 2017 when he had a major flare up in the same spot that he discovered he’d been living with a venous leg ulcer – which is now treated and healed.

Proof it’s worth speaking to your doctor if you need to.

Wound Awareness Week is 15 to 21 July 2018.