FOOT CARE IN DIABETES

• Every 30 seconds a leg is lost to diabetes somewhere in the world.
• 70% of all leg amputations world wide are caused by diabetes.
• Most amputations begin with foot ulcers.
• 5% of Indians with diabetes have to put up with a foot problem.

The good news is that 85% of amputations caused by diabetic foot ulcers are preventable.

Diabetic person's feet are vulnerable.

Diabetes affects the feet because nerves in this region are the longest in the body. Deficiency in insulin causes under - utilization of glucose in the nerves. This glucose gets converted into toxic deposits in the nerves and affects circulation. Diabetics often suffer from a burning sensation in the feet and legs.

Get Help Early

Because of neuropathy i.e. lack in sensation in the feet, diabetics often report foot wounds late. As nerves get burnt out, one also suffers painless deformities of the feet. Vasculopathy results from an accumulation of cholesterol in blood vessels, causing them to narrow down and obstruct circulation. In diabetic patients, age related degeneration of blood vessels is four times faster. As a result, the person could suffer from gangrene in the leg. A leg bypass surgery helps preserve blood circulation and thus stops the progression of gangrene that may have begun with an ulcer.

Actually, diabetes has an impact on almost every part of the body - the heart, kidneys, eyes and nerves. A simple blister, if untreated can develop into an abscess, a non - healing wound, even gangrene.

Early Prevention

The problem of containing an infection in diabetics is huge. Doctors must remove shoes and socks of diabetics and examine their feet. Losing a foot has huge social and economic implications and should be prevented.

Daily foot Care

Examine your feet every day for blisters, cuts and scratches. Consult your doctor immediately if you notice any of the following danger signs :

• Swelling
• Colour change of a nail, toe, or part of a foot
• Pain or throbbing
• Thick hard skin or corns
• Breaks in the skin, including cracks and blisters

Lifelong Care

Diabetics must keep the foot clean and injury - free at all times. The power of prevention in diabetic foot care is immense. Round - the - year care can do wonders in preserving circulation in the legs and thus ensure, healthy and happy feet.