Gangrene

Gangrene is the death of body tissue and can occur in any part of the body, although it is most common in the fingers and toes. There are two types of gangrene – dry and moist. Dry gangrene is caused by a problem in the blood supply while moist gangrene is caused by toxin-producing bacteria. General causes of gangrene may include injury, diabetes, smoking, thrombosis, frostbite, severe burns, and drinking excessive amounts of alcohol. Symptoms of external gangrene include discolouration, a loss of sensation, and a foul smelling discharge. Symptoms of internal gangrene include a persistent or severe pain, fever, gas in the tissues below the skin, feeling unwell, and septic shock. Treatment options include anticoagulants, antibiotics, pain relievers, removing the dead tissue, keeping the wound clean and sterile, and hyperbaric oxygen therapy.