415 million people in the world are suffering from diabetes. This includes men, women and children of all races. One of the most important aspects of foot care in diabetes is something that most people ignore or don’t know about. Abnormally high blood sugar levelsAlso Read – Diabetes Symptoms: How Your Skin Can Warn You Before It’s Too Late to Reverse Diabetes!
els usually cause liver and kidney problems, but did you know it can also cause problems in your feet? High blood sugar levels increase the risk of nerve damage (diabetes-related neuropathy), circulation problems, and foot injuries. It is possible that your legs will go numb. Diabetic Foot Problems and Care Dr. By Rinki Kapoor, Consultant Dermatologist and Dermato-Surgeon, The Aesthetic Clinics, shares the signs and symptoms of diabetic foot problems and how to take care of them. Also Read – Explained: Diabetes in children, adults and the elderly, which age group is more susceptible? The expert speaks
Having diabetes reduces blood flow to your feet causing nerve damage that takes away feeling in your feet. This condition is called diabetic neuropathy. Since you cannot perceive pain, even a minor injury can become serious. Also Read – World Diabetes Day 2021: 6 ways diabetes can affect women’s health
Severe signs and symptoms of diabetic-related neuropathy
- Common symptoms include pain, burning, tingling, and numbness in the feet and legs.
- Difficulty in wound healing and resistance to infection due to obstruction of blood flow. Blood vessels become narrow and hard and blood does not flow as well as it should.
- Foot ulcers that affect the ball of the foot or the bottom of the big toe. Even if they do not cause problems, they should see a doctor immediately.
- A foot deformity that changes the shape of the foot.
- Gangrene that causes tissue decay and death and may increase the need for amputation.
- Skin changes such as dryness, cracking, damaged heels, scaling, broken skin between toes, peeling
- Calluses due to high pressure areas under the feet. These calluses and corns can turn into ulcers if not treated on time.
You can also reduce your risk of diabetes-related foot problems by doing the following:
- The best thing you can do for your feet is to keep your sugar levels under check and exercise regularly.
- Take your medicines regularly and on time and check your sugar level regularly. Other important things to ensure good foot health in case of diabetes include:
- Keep a close eye on your feet. Check them regularly for any injuries, cuts or ulcers. If you notice anything, consult your doctor immediately
- After bathing, dry your feet properly and moisturize with an unscented cream or jelly. Be careful not to put anything between the toes.
- If you have to soak your feet, do it in warm water
- Quit smoking
- Avoid activities that may injure or burn the feet such as walking barefoot, using hot water bottles, working in dirt and mud.
- Do not pop blisters or attempt to self-medicate them without guidance.
- Trim your nails and avoid cutting the cuticles
- Wear clean and dry socks. Choose your socks and shoes carefully. Shoes should be well fitting, and socks should be cotton. Always keep your feet warm and dry
