Caring for Diabetic Foot Complications

People with diabetes are at a high risk of developing problems with their feet. Even the most minor issues can lead to serious diabetic foot complications. This is because the disease reduces blood flow, often results in nerve damage, and can cause changes in the shape of your foot, all of which can lead to wounds that go unnoticed and become infected. Diabetes and infection are not a good combination. In fact, the situation can become so serious that amputation is a possibility. That’s why it’s so important to care for complications as soon as they arise.

Common Complications

Neuropathy—A result of nerve damage, this condition lessens your ability to feel pain as well as hot and cold temperatures. Injuries like burns, blisters, and cuts can occur without your being aware of the problem. The longer it takes for you to notice them, the more likely infection will rear its ugly head.

Skin Changes—Because the nerves that control moisture and oil in your foot may cease to work when you have diabetes, your skin can become dry and cracked, leading to fissures that can easily get infected.

Structural Problems—Nerve damage can cause issues that lead to such deformities as hammer toes or bunions. These in turn can rub against your shoes, resulting in undetected abrasions—yet another opportunity for infection to come knocking.

Calluses—These often build up faster on those with diabetes because of high-pressure areas under the foot. If not treated they can eventually become thick and break down, turning into dangerous ulcers. 

Kidney and Eye Damage—The delicate filtering system of the kidneys is often damaged by diabetes, as are the blood vessels in the retina’s of the eyes. Managing the disease is crucial in avoiding kidney damage or failure and potential cataracts, glaucoma, and blindness.

Help Us Help You

At Advanced Foot and Ankle Center Inc., we have the expertise to treat diabetic foot complications when they develop, but there are plenty of things you can do to prevent problems from popping up in the first place.

The less controlled your blood sugar is, the higher your risk of complications. That’s why it is so important to manage your disease by keeping a close watch over your glucose levels. Your lifestyle makes a big difference. Be sure to eat right and exercise regularly. This will not only aide in blood sugar levels, but it will keep your weight in check and help with cholesterol, and blood pressure, too. Check your feet over every day as well. Use a pumice stone on any calluses that may develop. Look for abrasions, and if you find any, be sure to treat them right away or seek help from your podiatrist. Also, don’t smoke! If you choose to drink alcohol, do so responsibly. Lastly, always wear shoes, and make sure that they fit well. Following these simple guidelines can allow you to avoid complications and live a happy healthy life.

Don’t let diabetic foot complications like wounds and nerve damage happen to you. Follow a healthy daily ritual to stave off infections and serious problems. Receive more helpful tips at Advanced Foot & Ankle Center Inc. in Newark, Glasgow and Wilmington, DE. If you do have any foot problems relating to your diabetes, make an appointment with Dr. Raymond A. DiPretoro Jr. by calling (302) 623-4250 today.

CONTACT US

Please call us at (302) 355-0056.
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