Foot problems associated with diabetes
Diabetes is one of the well know chronic medical conditions that affects men and women all over the world. The main cause of the disease is levels of blood sugar that are high which over time leads to the damage of various parts of the body such as the eyes, blood vessels, nerves and kidneys among others. Furthermore, the immunity level of someone who has diabetes may also decline especially if the disease is not controlled well, resulting in damaged organs and immune system. Some of the most common problems that people with diabetes face are foot problems such as diabetic foot.
Most times those suffering from the disease are unable to feel their feet properly because their nervous system has been damaged, and sometimes oil production and the secretion of sweat is impaired thus leaving the skin of the feet dry. The combination of these two factors can result in the placement of abnormal pressure on bones, joints and the skin during walking resulting in sores on the foot. Diabetic foot is a common foot problem that usually develops from a number of causes such as wearing of shoes that fit poorly. If the shoes cause the feet to develop blisters or make them painful then new shoes should be bought. Poor circulation is also another cause and can lead to the arteries becoming hard thus affecting the flow of blood to tissues that may have been injured and hindering proper healing. Lastly, trauma can also cause the foot to become infected or the damage to nerves which may develop into a serious problem.
The symptoms of this foot problem that affects diabetics are varied but the most common include persistent pain in the leg, redness of the feet around a wound, swelling feet from poor circulation, difficulty in walking and numbness among others. If a diabetic identifies ant of these symptoms in their feet, it is important that they seek medical treatment as soon as they can. The treatment of the foot disease may vary depending on the cause and is best done by a qualified doctor.
Some of the treatments administered to diabetics with foot problems include the treatment of wounds or any trauma that may lead to infections. In addition, it is important to be constantly in touch with the doctor so that they may be able to check on the progress of the condition. On a personal level, diabetics should endeavor to keep their feet warm or cold depending on the weather, ensure the skin is soft as well as smooth, constant wearing of socks and even shoes, wash and check feet for any changes daily, ensure constant blood flow to feet and be active by exercising.
Diabetics are able to prevent the development of this disease but they must have enough information to be able to recognize the symptoms and immediately seek treatment. Even though the treatment options for diabetics affected by this type of foot problem have improved, keeping blood sugar under control goes a long way in preventing complications.