DIABETES & YOUR FEET
WHAT IS DIABETES?
Diabetes Mellitus is a chronic disease in which the body does not produce enough or utilise the hormone insulin that is used to convert glucose (sugar) in to energy. Without insulin, the glucose remains in the blood stream and overtime can lead to serious, even life threatening conditions.
What are the Symptoms/Complications?
If diabetes is not well controlled, foot problems can quickly develop.
Peripheral Neuropathy is nerve damage causing numbness and loss of sensation in the extremities. This loss of sensation can lead to tissue breakdown and ulceration. Everyday examples could be not feeling a stone in your shoe and continuing to walk on it or running a bath that was too hot and burning the skin.
Peripheral Vascular Disease & Gangrene is hardening and narrowing of the arteries, also called atherosclerosis resulting in poor circulation. This will increase the time taken for a wound to heal and may lead to infection and possibly gangrene.
How do I Prevent Diabetic Foot problems?
– Keep high blood sugar under control
– Make sure you dry feet thoroughly after a shower, especially in between the toes.
– Wear professionally fitted footwear to prevent any rubbing and blistering of the feet.
– Perform regular foot and shoe checks. If you notice any cuts, swelling, redness or blisters, see a Podiatrist who will give expert advice and treatment if needed.