How to Talk to Your Doctor About a Wound That Isn’t Improving

When Wound Progress Stalls: Don’t Stay Silent

It’s not always easy to know when a wound needs medical attention. Some slow down. Others look the same for weeks. And sometimes, discomfort or drainage increases instead of easing off. If something seems off, don’t wait—bring it up clearly and early.

This guide from WoundFree helps you prepare for that conversation: what to observe, what to share, and how to advocate for the right kind of care.

What Counts as “Not Improving”?

While every wound has its own pace, there are some clear warning signs that suggest it’s time to speak up:

• No noticeable change after 2–4 weeks

• Persistent or worsening discomfort

• Increased fluid or unusual odor

• Edges that won’t close or appear white and rolled

• Sudden swelling, redness, or warmth around the area

If any of these sound familiar, bring them to your provider’s attention. A straightforward conversation can uncover risks, rule out infection, or trigger the next step—such as a referral to a specialist.

What to Say: A Simple Script

It’s easy to feel unsure or brushed off during appointments. Here’s a simple script to help guide your discussion:

“I’ve been monitoring this wound, and I’m concerned because it hasn’t shown much progress. It still looks [describe briefly], and I’ve noticed [mention pain, odor, drainage, etc.]. Could this be a sign of an underlying issue? Should we consider a wound care referral?”

This direct approach does a few things:

• Shows you’ve been paying attention

• Flags potential complications

• Opens the door to additional support

What to Track Before Your Visit

To give your provider the best picture, jot down a few notes in the days before your appointment:

Observation Area	What to Record
Appearance	Any changes in size, color, or shape
Drainage	Color, amount, odor, and consistency
Discomfort	Level, location, and type of sensation
Interference	Whether it’s affecting daily movement
Self-Care Steps	What you’ve been doing at home

You don’t need medical terms—just be consistent and descriptive. Even a few photos taken over time can be helpful if your provider allows it.

When to Ask for a Referral

Some wounds need more than general care. If things aren’t improving, it’s reasonable to ask your provider if a wound care specialist should take a look. These professionals can evaluate circulation, nerve function, and other factors that might be slowing things down.

Common reasons for referral include:

• Diabetic foot wounds

• Venous leg ulcers

• Post-surgical sites with complications

• Wounds that persist beyond 30 days
  

You don’t need to wait for a crisis—early intervention often leads to better outcomes and fewer complications.

Advocating for Yourself or a Loved One

If you’re helping care for someone else, you can still lead the conversation. Providers appreciate accurate information and clear concerns. You might say:

“My [parent/spouse/friend] has had this wound for a few weeks, and we haven’t seen progress. We’d like to explore what else might be going on.”

Don’t worry about sounding demanding—you’re asking for clarity, not shortcuts.

Final Thoughts

A wound that doesn’t improve deserves attention, not guesswork. Whether you're a patient or a caregiver, speaking up early can prevent setbacks and lead to better care options.

At WoundFree, we believe informed conversations create better results. Use this guide as a starting point—and don’t hesitate to advocate for the support you (or your loved one) needs.