Living with diabetes can be hard. Not only do you have to maintain a particular diet, you also have to constantly check in on your body to make sure everything is going well. Those who suffer from diabetes know that the disease can affect much more than their blood sugar. It can also affect their eyesight, nervous system and the feet. One of the most common complications that diabetes brings to the table is diabetic foot ulcers. These foot ulcers can be very dangerous if they are not caught early. Foot ulcers are prone to infection. If they do become infected and a person with diabetes does not treat them quickly, it can lead to the eventual amputation of the foot. Here are some easy tips and tricks to help reduce your chances of getting a diabetic foot ulcer:
- It is important to be educated on the signs and the symptoms of diabetic foot ulcers. It is very common that they appear in patients who also suffer from diabetic neuropathy. This causes a lack of sensation in the feet and makes it hard for the feet to feel pain. Symptoms of ulcers for those with lack of sensation in the feet include increased skin temperature, drainage in socks, redness, and swelling.
- Be sure to look at your feet and check in every day. Blisters and cuts to lead to an infected ulcer in those who suffer from diabetes. If you can’t see your feet, find someone to help you look at them regularly.
- If you see an ulcer, be sure to take action immediately. A diabetic foot ulcer that goes untreated can lead to amputation of the foot. In order to avoid this, it is imperative that a person calls their podiatrist to treat an ulcer immediately.
- Try to stay healthy. Keeping your blood sugar in check and staying connected with your physicians will prevent any serious flare-ups from occurring.
- Make an appointment with your podiatrist regularly for check-ups and to share any concerns. Don’t let your feet get to the point of no return.
Diabetes can have a severe effect on the feet. It is important to watch out for any signs or symptoms of complications and treat them promptly. Having some foot problems? Call Joseph Stuto, DPM of Brooklyn, New York. There Dr. Joseph A. Stuto and Joseph C. Stuto can help you treat your diabetic foot complications. Call 718-624-7537and make an appointment today.