Millions of people around the world have diabetes. Unfortunately,
quite a handful of them do not know they have it. Diabetes is a very
serious disease that can lead to several complications such as kidney
failure, limb amputation, heart attack and stroke, blindness and
impotence, among others. But did you know that diabetes can also lead
to foot problems?
Dr. Claire Morbery is an endocrinologist who specializes in dealing diabetes. She said the blood vessels to our feet are delicate and are highly sensitive to increased levels of blood sugar.
“People with diabetes, particularly if it is poorly controlled, are more prone to develop neuropathy [damaged nerves] or peripheral vascular disease [blocked arteries] of the legs and either can lead to foot ulceration, infection and maybe even amputation,” Dr. Morbery explained. “Cigarette smoking will aggravate these problems.”
However, not all people will exhibit foot problems as symptoms of diabetes, Dr. Morbery added. She suggests good feet hygiene, regular checkups and a regular lookout for diabetes.
Here are a few steps on how to take good care of your feet to avert any foot-related disease or complication:
Dr. Claire Morbery is an endocrinologist who specializes in dealing diabetes. She said the blood vessels to our feet are delicate and are highly sensitive to increased levels of blood sugar.
“People with diabetes, particularly if it is poorly controlled, are more prone to develop neuropathy [damaged nerves] or peripheral vascular disease [blocked arteries] of the legs and either can lead to foot ulceration, infection and maybe even amputation,” Dr. Morbery explained. “Cigarette smoking will aggravate these problems.”
However, not all people will exhibit foot problems as symptoms of diabetes, Dr. Morbery added. She suggests good feet hygiene, regular checkups and a regular lookout for diabetes.
Here are a few steps on how to take good care of your feet to avert any foot-related disease or complication:
- Always visit a podiatrist for your foot-related condition. In all other circumstances, have them checked regularly, say once a year.
- Know your feet. If you notice something odd with them, seek professional as soon as possible. If practicable, apply ointments or any medication to suppress any complication. As much as possible, consult your doctor regarding your foot medication.
- Always maintain proper foot hygiene. Wash them with soap and water. Check them regularly for cuts, blisters, swelling, redness or pus discharge. Also, wear clean socks every day.
I think diabetic socks will be useful for controlling diabetes a bit.
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