Wounds can have an unpleasant smell. Foul smell can be caused by bodily fluids that end up on the wound (for instance, due to incontinence), or due to particles released by the wound tissue, as it gets broken down by certain germs. Persons with foul smelling wounds may get acclimated to the smell but may remain concerned about how others perceive it.
Odor of a wound can be evaluated after the wound is cleansed and debrided (if necessary). To reduce any remaining unpleasant odor, causes should be addressed. For example, if the wound is infected, infection should be treated. Other products also help reduce malodor: wound dressings specifically made to control odor and sprays that help eliminate odors in the environment around the person with a foul-smelling wound.
Flagyl 3% gel can be compounded by some pharmacists and applied to a foul smelling wound if other methods for odor control have failed. It is costly but effective for wound odor control.
If you have coverage through Medicare Part B and this product is not a spray or substance such as Flagyl gel, you may be eligible to have this product covered by Medicare. You will need a written order prescribed by a provider enrolled in Medicare, so that you can purchase this product at a Durable Medical Equipment store that accepts Medicare. You will need to pay deductibles and co-payment. The actual co-payment amount varies according to your state. If you do not have Medicare Part B or your condition does not meet the requirements needed for coverage, you can find this product at pharmacies and medical supply stores. When available, please see pricing in "Other Stores" below.
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