Diabetic Foot Problem

Diabetic foot develop as a result of diabetes, a disease that weakens the extremities. Diabetes can lead to neuropathy, or numbness in the feet (and oftentimes also in the legs, arms and hands).

Diabetes and foot problems must be managed carefully. Diabetic foot problems, if not diagnosed quickly, can have severe consequences – amputation, in the worst cases. Even ‘minor’ diabetes foot problems such as blisters can be very harmful.

Bruises do not heal easily when you are diabetic, so the smallest, bruises, puncture wounds, pressure areas, abnormal warmth, redness, foot ulcers, blisters, scratches, nail problems, and cuts can get infected.

 

What are the symptoms of diabetic feet?

Diabetes is a fairly common illness, and many people do not even realize that they have it. Some symptoms are sudden endless hunger and blurred vision. Patients with diabetes also experience fatigue, found themselves urinating more frequently than normal, and are always thirsty. Problems such as Charcot foot and neuropathy develop as a symptom of chronic diabetes.

 

What causes diabetic foot?

People with diabetes are likely to develop diabetic feet.

 

What tests are available?

Most doctors use the blood glucose test to spot diabetes. The patient is asked to fast for certain number of hours (usually eight) before the test. The normal blood glucose level is under 110 milligrams per deciliter. Blood glucose levels that hit 126 milligrams per deciliter or higher on two blood tests may indicate diabetes mellitus.

Gestational diabetes and type 2 diabates can be spotted using an oral glucose tolerance test. This test requires the patient to fast for at least eight but no more than 16 hours before being tested. The patient will be given a glucose drink after one round, after which another blood test is done.

 

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes feet are very sensitive. If you are a diabetic, make sure to go to podiatrist once you see a sign of any abnormality on your feet, may they be ingrown nails, corns, calluses, etc.

Remember that as a diabetic, your body is unable to produce the chemicals necessary to heal foot problems. The doctor may prescribe medications such as Regranex which you can apply to your foot sore. Such medications quicken healing to prevent your foot sores from getting infected.

In some cases, doctors may perform vessel bypass where the blocked blood vessels in your feet are bypassed with blood vessel grafts. Some cases also make a skin graft necessary. The doctor removes a part of skin from a healthy section of the patient’s body and then uses it to cover the diabetic wound. Note, however, that performing a skin graft on the soles can be difficult. If the main root of the wound is not fixed, the wound can reappear.

As a diabetic, you should take very good care of your feet. Wash them in warm (NEVER hot) water daily. Make it a habit to inspect your feet regularly – use a mirror to see your soles if you have to. Avoid walking barefoot or wearing shoes that expose your toes to lessen the risk for injury and infections.

Remember to wear socks made of cotton and other natural fibers, and shoes that fit correctly. In some cases, custom orthotics may help ease pressure on your feet.