Diabetic Foot

Diabetic Foot | There are many complications to being diabetic, but a person should pay special attention to diabetic foot, a common problem in people with the disease. 

Because diabetes has adverse effects on the kidneys, circulatory and nervous systems, foot problems can start without warning and quickly develop into a serious problem. 

In most cases, the nervous system weakens and the body does not respond to physical exertion by producing sweat and oils that help in the natural lubrication of the feet.

The condition of diabetic foot is characterised by sores that appear due to this lack of lubrication.

The main problem with diabetic foot is that once it starts, healing is very difficult to happen. Sores are very prone to bacterial infections, which can spread to the bones, tendons and muscles of the foot.

In extreme cases, a person with diabetes can be seen quickly turning a small sore on their feet into gangrene. If not treated in time, amputation of the affected foot may be necessary to prevent the spread of infection. Symptoms of diabetic foot ulcer include mild bruising, redness or swelling in the legs or feet.

For treatment, a patient with diabetes who has begun to notice foot ulcers should see a doctor. Antibiotics may be applied to the affected area to see if they can help control the infection.

If regular antibiotics are not effective, the patient may be hospitalised and treated with IV antibiotics for some time. In bad cases, a surgical operation may be necessary to remove the wound to get rid of the bacterial infection.

To prevent the formation of a new case of diabetic foot, the patient should rest the foot in question until it is cured.

The following is a list of foot care practises that should be followed by all diabetics.

1. The feet should be checked for dryness, cracks, bruises, bumps, calluses, deformities and edema.

2. Shoes should be checked for proper fit.

3. Carefully dry between the toes after bathing.

4. Lotion feet

5. Keep nails clean

6. Use the power to absorb moisture as indicated

7. Have a regular foot care routine

8. Check the inside of the shoes for rough areas.

9. Monitor foot temperature using the back of the hand.

10. When nails of normal thickness are soft, the nails can be trimmed using clippers and the curve of the toenail as a guide.

11. See a podiatrist for trimming for thickened nails.

Diabetic foot care is an essential element of treating the disease's effects. Failure to follow proper foot care procedures can lead to a variety of problems that can lead to foot amputation.

How does diabetes cause foot problems?

Diabetes patients are more likely to experience foot problems. High blood sugar occurs over time when nerves and blood vessels in the feet are damaged. Nerve damage, also known as diabetic neuropathy, can cause numbness, tingling, pain or loss of sensation in your feet.

If you can not feel the pain, you may not know when you have cuts, blisters or ulcers (open source) in your foot. Such an injury can be contagious. Damaged blood vessels can cause poor blood flow to your feet so the infection may not heal well.

Infection and poor blood circulation can lead to gangrene. That is, muscles, skin and other tissues begin to die. If you have gangrene or foot ulcer and it does not improve with treatment, you may need amputation.

It is surgery that cuts off your injured toe, foot or part of your leg. This can prevent the spread of a bad infection and save your life.

But you can do a lot to prevent foot injury from becoming a major health problem.

How do I protect my feet if I have diabetes?

The best way to protect your feet is by controlling your blood sugar levels on a daily basis. It helps to keep nerve and blood vessel damage from getting worse. The following step is to maintain the health of your feet ' skin.

People with diabetes should take special care of their feet, which includes:

• Check your feet daily. Look for cuts, redness and other changes in the skin and nails, including pimples or other scars that can rub off your shoes. Check the bottoms of your feet as well.

• Wash your feet daily. Use warm water and soap.Soaking your feet will cause your skin to dry out.  After you dry your feet, you can apply talcum powder or cornstarch between your toes. They absorb the moisture that causes infection. If you use lotion, do not apply it between your toes.

• Ask your doctor how to safely remove corn and calluses. Rubbing thick skin on your feet can lead to sores. But removing it incorrectly can damage your skin. So you should not cut the skin or use medicine pads or liquid removers.

• Trimming your nails directly with the clipper. If you find it difficult to trim your own nails, or if they are thick or bent over the skin, consult a podiatrist for yourself.

• Always wear well-fitting shoes and socks or sandals to protect your feet while running. You do not like to walk barefoot even inside the house. And make sure your shoes are soft on the inside. A seam or pebble can rub your skin raw.

• Keeping blood flow in your feet. Raise your feet while you sit. Rotate your toes and circle your feet throughout the day. Do not wear tight socks. And get plenty of activity that is not too difficult for the feet like walking.

• Checking your feet at your health care visits. Even if you do not notice the problem, it is a good idea for your health care provider to look at your feet.

When should I schedule an appointment with my doctor to discuss diabetic foot problems?

• Severe foot problems develop quickly. If you experience any of the following symptoms, contact your healthcare professional right once.

• Cuts, blisters or sores on your feet will not start to heal in a few days

• The skin on your feet may be red, heated, or painful.

• Kallis with dried blood inside

• A foot infection that turns black and smells bad can be gangrene

Remember, controlling your blood sugar and looking after your feet every day are the best steps you can take to prevent serious diabetic foot problems.