Diabetes is a chronic disease that poses various complications like foot ulcers. These ulcers develop when injuries on the feet of a diabetic patient are left untreated or cared for. Here is more information about diabetic foot ulcers, including their causes, diabetic foot care, and more:
Diabetic Foot Ulcers Explained
Diabetic foot ulcers can occur as an open wound on the bottom of your foot. It breaks down your skin tissues, affecting tissue layers. Diabetic foot ulcers develop under the balls of your feet or big toes. This foot issue is common in patients with type 1 or 2 diabetes. Such patients have between 19% and 34% lifetime risk of having diabetic foot ulcers.
Adopting various lifestyle changes that lower blood sugar levels can reduce the risk of these ulcers. If you notice a puncture or ulcer under your foot, visit a podiatrist for help. See the doctor if you notice symptoms like discharge of fluid, foul smells, skin discoloration, redness, and swelling.
Causes of Diabetic Foot Ulcers
Before planning for diabetic foot care or treatment, knowing the potential causes of these ulcers can help. Diabetic patients can be more likely to develop neuropathy, which damages peripheral nerves. This complication is common with diabetes mellitus patients who fail to control their condition early on.
Sensory neuropathy decreases the sensation of pain in your feet. Over time, damage to your feet might lead to callus formation, resulting in a foot ulcer. High blood sugar levels, poor blood circulation, and being overweight can also trigger or exacerbate a foot ulcer.
Poor foot care is another cause of foot ulcers in diabetic patients. Improper foot care may entail wearing poor quality or poorly fitted shoes, improper trimming of toenails, and bad hygiene. Dry skin under your feet can also crack and bleed, leading to ulcers.
Diabetic Foot Care
A diabetic foot care program can benefit patients with or without foot ulcers. If you have foot ulcers, keep your diabetes under control and get early treatment. During treatment and follow-up care, your podiatrist may recommend wearing the following:
- Shoes designed for diabetic patients
- Shoe inserts
- Foot braces
- Casts
- Compression wraps
The follow-up care regimen might involve foot baths, disinfecting the ulcer, applying fresh bandages, and taking prescribed antibiotics. The following tips may help prevent diabetic foot ulcers from occurring:
Track Your Blood Sugar Level
A high blood sugar level slows down the healing process of a foot injury. High glucose levels will trigger a foot ulcer that might spread all over your foot if not adequately managed. Consult with your doctor to learn how to keep blood sugar levels at a safe range. You’ll need to take prescribed medicines, check your diet, and get regular exercise.
Inspect Your Feet Daily
It’s not uncommon for diabetic patients to overlook injuries under their feet. These injuries, if left untreated, can become foot ulcers. Check your feet for cuts, blisters, swelling, or redness. Bathe your feet daily in lukewarm water and moisturize them to keep the skin dry. Cut and file your nails carefully.
Avoid Walking Barefoot
Walking barefoot exposes the bottom of your feet to sharp objects that can tear the skin. Wear comfy shoes or slippers when necessary, especially at home, work, or the gym. When choosing your shoes, look for flexible and breathable materials, like leather or cloth. You can also apply antiperspirant on the soles of your feet to combat sweat.
Go for Regular Checkups
Visit your podiatrist to have your feet checked for potential diabetic ulcers. Your doctor can spot early signs of diabetic foot ulcers and treat the problem promptly. The doctor can also schedule follow-up appointments to encourage proper and timely healing.
Get Quality Diabetic Foot Treatment and Care
Diabetic foot ulcers are treatable, especially when caught early. If you spot a symptom of foot ulcers, see your doctor to avoid severe issues later on. Adopt a strategic diabetic foot care program to prevent or address foot ulcers today.