Diabetic feet problems are nothing to overlook. Diabetes is a serious disease, very serious. It develops from a lack of insulin production in the body or in some cases due to the inability of the body’s insulin to perform its’ regular functions. The pancreas produces insulin and that helps process the food we eat and turn it into energy. Approximately 16 million Americans are classified as diabetics and many of these diabetics have complications associated parts of the body such as the kidneys, legs, eyes and feet. I cannot overemphasize the importance of diabetics paying regular attention to their feet.
Diabetics can develop a condition known as neuropathy. As a matter of fact, 25% of the 16 million Americans will develop diabetic foot problems related to the disease. These diabetic foot problems are caused by a combination of causes including poor circulation and neuropathy. Diabetic neuropathy can create a situation where the body does not feel cold heat or pain. For this reason, diabetic can develop minor cuts, scrapes, blisters or pressure sores that they may not be aware of. Left untreated, complications may result and lead to ulcers and even amputation. This is not to mention deformities like bunions, hammer toes or charcot feet.
Another of the diabetic feet problems is poor circulation. Diabetes can often lead to peripheral vascular disease. It is this disease that inhibits a persons’ blood circulation. As a result of this condition, there is a narrowing of the arteries. This often leads to significantly decreased circulation in the lower part of the legs and the feet. This condition is a contributing factor in diabetic foot problems. It reduces the amount of oxygen and nutrition that is supplied to the skin and other tissue, which causes injuries to heal poorly. Poor circulation can also cause the feet to sell or to become dry. Preventing diabetic foot problems and its’ complications is more critical for the diabetic patient. The condition impairs the healing process and can lead to ulcers, infection, and other very serious foot conditions.
What can you do about diabetic feet problems? What steps can you take to prevent complications? Here are some measures you can take. Take care of your diabetes, check your feet every day, wash your feet every day, keep the feet soft and smooth, wear shoes and socks at all times, protect your feet from hot and cold, keep the blood flowing to your feet, be more active and communicate with your doctor.
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