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Diseases that spread through Air – Airborne Diseases
Diseases that spread through Air – Airborne Diseases

Airborne diseases are those, which are caused by microorganisms and spread through the air. These are mostly caused by pathogens like bacteria, fungi or viruses and are expelled into the air due to coughing, sneezing or talking.

Climatic factors such as humid conditions and persistently high temperature might also increase the risk of contracting airborne diseases. High humidity levels promote aerosol growth and deposition in the respiratory tract. On the other hand, loss of water is the greatest environmental stressor for the microorganisms to stay viable.

Several treatment options are available which we should know along with prevention techniques to avoid catching such diseases. We bring to you some facts about these airborne diseases and preventive measures.

 SOME KEY POINTS:
1. Colds & Flu are airborne
2. Bacteria are transmitted through tiny pathogens in the air while coughing, sneezing or even talking
3. An airborne disease is contracted when someone breathes in the infected air
4. Symptoms that may range from mild to sever include: cough, chill, sneezing, runny nose, muscle or body aches, congestion, fatigue, etc.
5. Wearing masks and maximizing ventilation are good preventive options
6. Pregnant females, those undergoing cancer treatment, immunocompromised patients are more susceptible to airborne diseases

FEW AIRBORNE DISEASES:

Pathogens that cause airborne diseases cling to dust particles, moisture droplets, pollens, etc. These are picked up while breathing or through body fluids like mucus and phlegm. The disease-causing microorganisms multiply once inside your body.

Some common airborne diseases may include:
-Common cold
-Influenza caused by rhinovirus
-Varicella zoster (a virus which causes chickenpox in children)
-Mumps (virus attacks the glans beneath ears and even causes loss of hearing)
-Measles,
-Whooping cough or pertussis (caused by a bacterial infection and should be treated with antibiotics to prevent damage)

Some uncommon airborne diseases include:
-Anthrax
-Diphtheria
-Meningitis

 PREVENTING AIRBORNE DISEASES:

Role of Proper Ventilation:
Poor ventilation (for example in overcrowded places) contribute to the spread of the disease, as disease-causing microorganisms, pollutants and moisture may build up to unsafe levels by decreasing the number of air exchanges.

Even a poorly maintained air-conditioning system may lead to the transmission of tuberculosis and legionellosis causing microorganisms as they build up in poorly ventilated areas increasing the transmission risk. Natural ventilation is an effective method for promoting infection control. Increasing ventilation helps the proper exchange of air thus diluting the contaminated air to reduce airborne infection rates.

Good Hygiene Practices:
Following good hygienic and sanitary habits help to reduce the risk of disease transmission. Regular hand washing, wearing a hospital mask in public places and covering your mouth while coughing or sneezing are some habits that are recommended.

Now that we have understood that these airborne diseases spread by cross contamination while an infected person coughs, sneezes or even talks, we @ Datt Mediproducts recommend following the required preventive measures so that the risk of contracting airborne diseases can be reduced.

Visit www.dattmedi.com for more infomation.
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Wound Care in Diabetes

Diabetes significantly increases the risk of developing chronic wounds, particularly foot ulcers. Effective wound care is crucial for preventing complications and promoting healing in diabetic patients. In this blog, you will explore the nature of diabetic wounds, prevention techniques, and management strategies to help healthcare professionals and patients navigate these challenges.

Understanding Diabetic Wounds

Diabetic wounds, especially foot ulcers, are common complications resulting from prolonged high blood sugar levels. These wounds often develop due to neuropathy (nerve damage) and peripheral arterial disease, which impair sensation and blood flow. Consequently, minor injuries can go unnoticed and progress into serious ulcers. Left untreated, these ulcers can lead to severe infections and, in extreme cases, amputations.

1. Prevention Techniques for Diabetic Ulcers:

Preventing diabetic ulcers is essential to reduce the risk of severe complications. Here are some effective prevention strategies.

2. Regular Foot Inspections: 

Diabetic patients should inspect their feet (or have someone inspect it) on a daily basis for cuts, blisters, redness, or swelling. Early detection of potential issues can prevent minor problems from becoming serious ulcers.

3. Proper Footwear: 

  • Wearing well-fitting shoes and socks designed for diabetics can prevent pressure points and reduce the risk of injuries. 
  • Avoid wearing tight stockings or socks with elastic tops as they can reduce blood flow.
  • Avoid extreme hot or cold temperatures.
  • Do not treat corn or calluses on your own. 
  • Avoiding barefoot walking, even at home, is crucial.

4. Good Hygiene: 

Keeping feet clean and dry is essential. Patients should wash their feet daily with mild soap and water, then dry them thoroughly, especially between the toes.

5. Blood Sugar Control: 

Maintaining optimal blood sugar levels through diet, exercise, and medication can significantly reduce the risk of neuropathy and poor circulation, which contribute to ulcer formation.

6. Regular Medical Foot Check-Ups: 

Routine visits to a healthcare provider or a podiatrist for foot exams can help identify and address problems early.

7. Management Strategies for Diabetic Patients:

When ulcers do occur, effective management is vital to promote healing and prevent complications.

Here are some key strategies:

  • Wound Cleaning and Dressing: Keeping the ulcer clean and protected is essential. Cleaning the wound with a saline solution and using appropriate dressings, such as those provided by DMP Velvert®, can create an optimal healing environment. It provides a barrier to external contaminants, aids absorption of exudates and accelerates wound healing.
  • Debridement: Removing dead tissue from the wound (debridement) can accelerate the healing process. This procedure should be performed by a healthcare professional.
  • Pressure Offloading: Reducing pressure on the affected area is crucial. Patients may need special footwear, casts, or braces to alleviate pressure on the ulcer. Foot or mobility exercises also help in decreasing peak pressure, increasing foot and ankle range of motion and it improves neuropathy symptoms.
  • Infection Control: Monitoring for signs of infection and using antibiotics when necessary is critical. Proper wound care products, like Velvert®, which offer antimicrobial properties, can help prevent infections.
  • Blood Flow Improvement: Enhancing blood circulation through medical treatments or lifestyle changes can aid in the healing process. This might include medications, physical therapy, or surgical interventions. Revascularization results in increased tissue perfusion, which can further reduce amputation rates.
Diabetic ulcers are a serious complication of diabetes, but with proper prevention and management strategies, their impact can be significantly reduced. Regular foot inspections, good hygiene, appropriate footwear, and effective blood sugar control are key preventive measures. When ulcers do develop, it is best to catch them in the early stages when they are small, products combined with professional medical care, can promote healing and prevent complications.

At Datt Mediproducts, we offer Velvert®, an advanced wound care solution designed to aid in the management of diabetic ulcers. Velvert® dressings are crafted to provide superior moisture retention and protection, creating an optimal environment for wound healing. They also incorporate antimicrobial properties to reduce the risk of infection, which is crucial for diabetic patients. Velvert® is easy to apply and remove, ensuring minimal discomfort for patients.

Wound Care Myths Debunked

When it comes to wound care, there’s a lot of advice floating around. Some of it is helpful, while other bits are more myth than fact. Let’s clear up some common wound care myths and get to the truth behind them.

Myth 1: Wounds Need Sunlight to Heal

Fact: While sunshine is great for your mood, it’s not beneficial for healing wounds. In fact, direct sunlight can actually cause burns and damage the tissues that are trying to heal. So, to promote proper healing, keep wounds covered and out of direct sunlight.
Source : Cleveland Clinic

Myth 2: Wound Itching Means Healing

Fact: A bit of itching around a wound can be a sign that it’s healing, but it’s not always the case. Itching might also indicate an allergic reaction or infection. Monitor any itching along with other symptoms to ensure the healing process is on track.
Source : Advanced Tissue

Myth 3: Hydrogen Peroxide is the Best Cleaner for Wounds

Fact: Using hydrogen peroxide to clean wounds can actually slow down the healing process by damaging healthy cells. Instead, stick to gentle cleansing with mild soap and water to keep things clean without causing additional damage.
Source : University of Utah Healthcare & Atlantic Foot & Ankle Specialists

Myth 4: Keep Wounds Dry for Faster Healing

Fact: While it’s essential to keep wounds clean, keeping them too dry can actually slow down the healing process. Wounds heal better in a moist environment, so using dressings to maintain the right level of moisture can speed up recovery.
Source : LifeMD™

Understanding the Importance of Proper Wound Care

Wound care isn’t just about cleaning and covering a wound; it’s about understanding the underlying processes that help your body repair itself. Following evidence-based practices ensures that wounds heal properly and complications are minimized. Here’s why these practices are crucial:

  • Preventing Infections: Proper wound care minimizes the risk of infection, which can complicate healing and lead to more serious health issues.
  • Promoting Faster Healing: By maintaining a moist environment and protecting the wound, you accelerate the natural healing process.

When to Seek Professional Help

While minor cuts and scrapes can often be treated at home, certain situations warrant professional medical attention:

  • Deep or Large Wounds: Significant injuries that penetrate deep into the skin or are extensive in size require medical assessment.
  • Signs of Infection: Redness, swelling, increased pain, warmth around the wound, or pus are signs of infection that need medical intervention.
  • Delayed Healing: If a wound does not show signs of healing within a reasonable period, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider.

In a nutshell, taking care of wounds isn’t complicated, but it’s important to distinguish fact from fiction. By following evidence-based practices and seeking professional advice when needed, you can ensure your wounds heal properly and without unnecessary complications.

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