Silver Treatment for Wounds

Silver has healing properties that have made it usual for curing wounds. The use of silver has been around for centuries and it is still an effective way to treat wounds.

History

• Silver has been used as an antimicrobial agent since the 19th century when it was used to help close up incisions following surgery, according to Podiatry Today.

Function

• Silver has been used to treat gonorrhea, eye infections and burn victims. Its use has declined since the invention of antibiotics.

Effects

• Silver helps wounds heal because it kills off bacteria. The constant presence of silver stops bacteria from invading to deeper layers of the skin and allows the immune system to focus on healing the wound rather than fighting infection.

Types

• Certain products are available for wounds that contain silver. These include Algidex Ag, Silvercel and Aquacel Ag.

Warning

• Some patients may have an allergy to metals and that the use of silver be monitored, although these reactions are quite rare, according to Podiatry Today.