Did you know that people with diabetes can develop something called diabetic foot? Don’t miss this article if you want to know what it is.
There are many complications of diabetes. However, there is one that is very common when sugar levels remain high for a long time: diabetic foot. For a normal person, checking the condition of their feet may be something irrelevant. But for someone with diabetes it is primordial. Making sure that there are no new wounds on their feet can be the way to detect problems in time. If you want to know what is diabetic foot disease, how it develops and why it is so prevalent in people with diabetes, don’t miss this article.
What is diabetic foot?
Diabetic foot is a complication of diabetes. It happens when glucose levels remain higher than normal for a long time.
In the long term, high sugar levels have consequences. They end up damaging the nerves and blood vessels in the feet. This causes less sensation (diabetic neuropathy) and less circulation in the area (ischemia). When a person has a lower sensibility and less circulation, is more likely to develop annoying wounds or ulcers.
Detecting foot wounds early is essential. Infections or poor blood flow can cause long-term gangrene in the affected area, which can lead to complications.
Symptoms of diabetic foot
Usually people realize there is a problem when sores or ulcers appear on the feet. But there are other symptoms that warn us earlier:
- Tingling sensation
- Feeling cramps
- Noticed loss of sensation
- Wounds that do not heal or, become ulcers
Paying attention to the areas with poor circulation is important. The soles of the feet and areas where there are bones nearby – such as the knuckles or toes – tend to have poor circulation and are more likely to develop wounds.
Can diabetic foot be prevented?
Diabetic foot, as mentioned, is a complication of poor circulation and poor sensation. But it is preventable. If you pay attention to the symptoms and detect it early, you don’t have to have major complications.
Some people have a higher risk of having this condition. For example those who have:
- Peripheral neuropathy.
- Foot deformities.
- Peripheral vascular disease.
- History of ulcers.
Also, there are some factors that can accelerate or increase the chances of having diabetic foot:
- Having poor control over your diabetes
- Poor foot hygiene habits.
- Wearing inappropriate footwear.
- Excessive smoking.
- Having hypertension.
- Being obese or overweight.
Tips to prevent diabetic foot
Do you want to prevent having diabetic foot? Here are a few recommendations that will help you with that.
Keep a good control of your blood glucose
Keeping your blood sugar levels under control is essential. This will help you avoid complications such as diabetic foot. Have a healthy diet, exercise and establish routines to achieve this. Plus, apps like Cori can make it easier for you thanks to its notifications, that will remind you when you should measure or eat. Are you up for giving it a try?
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People with diabetes are especially vulnerable to the dangers of colds and the flu, but there are things you can do to control your symptoms and avoid getting sick in the first place. You may maintain your health even when you’re feeling under the weather by constantly monitoring your blood sugar levels, staying hydrated, getting enough of rest, and adhering to your diabetes management plan. Additionally, you may lower your risk of getting sick and safeguard yourself from any problems by maintaining proper cleanliness, being vaccinated, and generally maintaining good health. Make sure to discuss any worries you may have with your healthcare team for advice and support if you have diabetes and are worried about managing colds and the flu.
Wear the right shoes
Good shoes are not just for comfort. They will prevent you from getting chafing or blisters as well. The best thing to do for sore and chafe-free feet is to avoid tight, uncomfortable shoes and always try to wear socks.
Pay attention to your feet
Diabetic foot complications come from late diagnosis. That is why it is very important to be aware of our feet. Check them daily and pay attention to the wounds that may appear. An early detection will prevent possible health complications.
Go to the podiatrist
The podiatrist, as well as your endocrinologist, are specialists in their field. It is recommended to visit them from time to time and ask them to file corns and calluses, as well as to cut and file your nails.
Always keep your feet dry
Whether it is with water or cream, overhydration is not good. It can lead to fungus or make it easier for chafing or blisters to appear. After getting out of the shower or pool remember to dry your feet well, especially between the toes. Also avoid applying cream just before putting on socks or shoes. It is better to apply it a couple of hours before so that it dries.
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