Chronic Wounds

Chronic wounds or open wounds that lasts beyond 30 days are recognised as one of the major health concerns in Australia. Recent data estimates around 450,000 Australians are currently living with chronic wounds. Speak with an AHPRA-licensed health practitioner and get instant medical advice within 15 minutes, 24/7.

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How our doctors can help

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When to consult a doctor for chronic wounds?

If the wound is not healing properly

Consult a doctor if your wound shows no noticeable improvement within 2 weeks or does not heal completely within 6 weeks, as delayed healing may indicate an underlying issue.

If there are signs of infection or worsening symptoms

Seek medical advice if the wound is painful, swollen, red, warm to touch, or starts discharging pus or an unpleasant smell, or if you develop a fever or feel generally unwell.

If you are at higher risk or unsure about care

People with diabetes, poor circulation, or immune conditions should see a doctor early for wound care. It’s also best to get care if you’re unsure about proper wound management.

This guide does not replace professional care. Consult a doctor to manage your symptoms. In emergencies, call 000. The content is research-backed & medically reviewed by Dr. Ammar AL-ANI, MBChB, CCBST, AMC

Chronic wounds causes

Poor blood circulation: Conditions like venous insufficiency or arterial disease reduce oxygen and nutrient supply to the wound.
Diabetes: High blood sugar can damage blood vessels and nerves, increasing infection risk.
Infection: Bacteria in a wound can prevent normal tissue repair and lead to complications.
Pressure or repeated trauma: Continuous pressure or injury to a wound site can stop it from healing.
Immune system issues: Autoimmune disorders, chronic illness, or certain medications can impair the body’s ability to heal.
Poor nutrition: Lack of essential nutrients like protein, zinc, and vitamin C affects wound healing.
Smoking: Reduces blood flow and oxygen delivery to tissues.

Chronic wounds symptoms

A wound that remains open for more than 2–6 weeks
Persistent or increasing pain
Redness, swelling, or warmth in the surrounding skin
Discharge or pus, bleeding or oozing that doesn’t settle
Unpleasant smell
Delayed scab formation or failure to close
Hardened, discoloured, or dead tissue around the wound edges
Fever, or chills
Skin irritation or itchiness around the wound site

Types of chronic wound

Pressure ulcers or bedsores: Caused by prolonged pressure on the skin, common in people with limited mobility or those confined to a bed.
Diabetic foot ulcers: Open sores that develop on the feet of people with diabetes, often due to nerve damage and poor blood circulation.
Venous leg ulcers: Typically found around the ankles, these result from poor blood flow in the leg veins, causing swelling and skin breakdown.
Arterial ulcers: Caused by restricted blood flow through arteries, usually painful and located on the lower legs or feet.
Non-healing surgical wounds: Wounds from surgery that don’t close or heal properly.

Prevention and home remedies

Topical Soothing: Apply medical-grade honey, aloe vera, or coconut oil to provide antibacterial protection and reduce inflammation.
Anti-Inflammatory Aids: Use turmeric or chamomile compresses to support tissue repair and calm irritated skin.
Nutritional Support: Increase intake of Vitamin C and Zinc to boost collagen production and immune function.
Professional Care: Consult a healthcare provider if symptoms persist or signs of infection develop.

Hola Health provides a fast and convenient way for you to see a doctor online in minutes, 24/7 across Australia. Much like an in-person GP clinic, our AHPRA-registered Australian online GP chat will conduct a comprehensive assessment to provide the best possible care, instantly.