Foot Care In Diabetes

• Foot ulcers result ultimately in amputations.
• Over 5% of Indians having diabetes have a foot problem.
• Worldwide leg amputations due to diabetic feet occur up to 70%.

Feet are affected in diabetes because nerves and blood vessels in the legs are involved.Toxic deposits results from the elevated blood glucose levels. These toxins are deposited in the nerves and they interfere with the circulation of the blood. Diabetics suffer from a burning sensation often in the feet and legs.

Get Help as soon as possible

Because of neuropathy i.e. lack in sensation in the feet, diabetics often neglect foot wounds. Blood vessels narrow down due to cholesterol deposits in their walls and obstruct circulation. In diabetic patients, As a result, the person can 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.

Prevent early

Losing a foot is a very tragic occurrence and should be prevented at all costs..

Regular care of the feet on daily basis

Feet should be examined thoroughly every day for blisters, cuts and scratches. Consult your doctor immediately if you notice any of the following danger signs :

• Swelling
• Color change of a nail, toe, or part of a foot
• Throbbing pain
• Thickening of skin
• Corns on the feet
• Breaks in the skin, including cracks and blisters

Foot problem in diabetics occur so gradually that people do not realize they have a foot problem in the first place. The trouble may start from a small cut or a blister and spread out to become a non – healing ulcer and a wound. Soon infection sets in and the interference with the blood circulation coupled with numbness of foot due to neuropathy leads to a formation and spreading of a gangrene. And, amputation of the gangrenous foot may have to be carried out with all its social and economic implications.

So, it is a good idea to start early. Do not neglect a small crack, blister, or an ulcer on the feet. Keep the feet clean and dry. Wear clean, soft socks and well – fitting footwear. Do not walk bare – foot in the house too.Beware of foot injuries. Keep your feet dry.

85% of foot amputations are preventable. Diabetics should get early treatment for foot wounds in time…..

Since Diabetics are prone to neuropathy of the legs, the feet become numb and have less sensations save that of burning. Any injury to the feet go unnoticed by the patient and tend to enlargen. A small cut or abrasion becomes bigger with time and can get infected. Due to disturbance in the circulation of blood, color changes occur in the limb and gradually a gangrene sets in. The gangrenous feet in due course of time leads to amputation.

Good News :

The good news for Diabetics is that with a constant vigilance regarding control of diabetes with regular treatment, medication, control of blood sugar, regular diet - control and exercises, and regular follow – up with a good diabetologist, one can lead a normal healthy life and even hope for longevity. Usually diabetics are also hypertensive. Proper care and treatment of blood pressure and cardiac condition if any need to be supervised as well.