Living with diabetes can impact many aspects of life, including your foot health. Unfortunately, uncontrolled blood sugar levels can lead to various complications in the feet, such as nerve damage (neuropathy), poor circulation, and increased susceptibility to infections. However, with proper care and management, people with diabetes can maintain healthy feet.
Understanding Diabetic Foot Issues
Diabetes impacts foot health in several ways:
Neuropathy: High blood sugar levels can damage nerves, causing tingling, pain or numbness. This neuropathy may prevent you from feeling pain in your feet. If a blister or sore occurs and goes unnoticed, it can lead to more serious issues like ulcers or even gangrene.
Poor Circulation: Diabetes can also impact blood circulation, making it harder for the body to heal itself. Wounds take longer to heal, increasing the risk of infections.
Regular check-ups with a podiatrist or foot specialist are crucial if you have diabetes, as these professionals can monitor your feet and address issues before they become serious problems.
Maintaining Good Foot Hygiene
Proper foot hygiene is an essential part of managing diabetic foot health. Here are some practices that can help:
Wash your feet daily with warm water and mild soap, then dry them thoroughly. Pay special attention to drying between your toes.
Moisturize your feet daily using a lanolin-free cream, but avoid applying it between the toes, as this can increase the risk of fungal infections.
Regular self-examinations are also important. Check for cuts, blisters, redness or swelling on a daily basis. If you notice anything unusual, contact your healthcare provider immediately.
Educating Your Healthcare Team
Regular communication with your medical professionals is essential when managing diabetic foot health. Here are some tips for effective conversations:
Keep track of any changes in your feet, including cuts, sores, or areas of unusual sensitivity.
Bring up concerns with your healthcare provider as soon as possible to allow for prompt treatment.
Remember that managing diabetic foot issues is a team effort. Your podiatrist or foot specialist will work closely with your primary care physician and endocrinologist to ensure you receive the best care possible.
Seeking Additional Support
For some people with diabetes, managing foot health can be challenging. Here are a few resources that may help:
Community support groups: Speak to your healthcare provider about local support groups for people with diabetes or diabetic foot issues. These groups can offer emotional support and practical advice.
Specialty clinics: Consider seeking out specialized care from a podiatrist who specializes in treating patients with diabetes.
By staying informed, proactive and working closely with your healthcare team, you can successfully manage your diabetic foot health.
