Why Is Foot Care Important If You Have Diabetes?
Unmanaged diabetes can lead to amputations, usually of the toes, feet, or legs. Causes include reduced blood flow or peripheral neuropathy. Managing your blood sugar is one way to help prevent it.
Diabetes and amputation
Diabetes can increase the risk of foot or leg amputation due to related conditions such as peripheral artery disease (PAD) and diabetic neuropathy.
PAD narrows the arteries that carry blood to the legs and feet, making them more susceptible to ulcers and infections that heal slowly.
Diabetic neuropathy, on the other hand, damages the nerves and blood vessels in the feet and legs, causing a loss of sensation and making it difficult to detect ulcers or infections. If these conditions are severe and not treated, amputation may be necessary to prevent further complications.
To lower the risk of amputation, it is important for individuals with diabetes to take good care of their feet.
Includes maintaining control over diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol, as well as regularly inspecting the feet for any changes or abnormalities.
Other preventive measures include not smoking, engaging in regular exercise to improve blood flow, wearing protective shoes, and scheduling regular check-ups with healthcare professionals to monitor foot health. Depending on the severity of infections or wounds, alternative treatments may be recommended before amputation is considered, such as wound cleaning, antibiotics, or surgical procedures to improve blood flow.
Ways for Preventing Amputation
To prevent amputation if you have diabetes, there are several steps you can:
1. Manage your blood sugar levels: Keeping your blood sugar levels within the target range can help reduce the risk of complications that could lead to amputation. Follow a healthy eating plan, take prescribed medications, and monitor your blood sugar regularly.
2. Take care of your feet: Inspect your feet daily for any cuts, sores, or changes. Clean your feet and dry them thoroughly, especially between the toes. Moisturize to prevent dry skin, but avoid applying lotion between the toes. Wear comfortable shoes that fit well and provide enough support.
3. Regular foot check-ups: Visit a healthcare professional regularly for foot screenings and to assess any risk factors or issues. They can provide guidance on proper foot care and detect potential problems early.
4. Prompt wound care: If you notice any foot wounds, blisters, or ulcers, seek medical attention promptly. Proper wound care, including cleaning, dressing, and appropriate treatment, can help prevent infections and promote healing.
5. Diabetes self-management education and support (DSMES): Consider participating in DSMES programs, which can provide you with knowledge and skills to manage your blood sugar levels effectively, cope with challenges, and prevent complications like amputation.
6. Lead a healthy lifestyle: Engage in regular physical activity as recommended by your healthcare professional to improve circulation. Maintain a healthy weight, quit smoking if you're a smoker, and manage other risk factors such as high blood pressure and high cholesterol.