Diabetes : Foot and Skin Care

Raised blood sugar will damage nerves and blood vessels that can lead to serious foot problems in diabetic people. Foot problem is a common issue in diabetics and most of these foot problems can be prevented by proper management of your diabetes and with a healthy life style.

This is the basic information about feet and skin problems caused by diabetes.

How Diabetes affect your foot:

If diabetes is not well controlled
Will have raised blood sugar which will damage nerves and blood vessels
Poor control of diabetes. It is of two types- Neuropathy and Vasculopathy.
Nerve damage makes you more likely to have Ulcers.
Healing will be delayed due to lack of blood supply to the Ulcer.
These ulcers are prone to infections.
You are at risk of amputations with diabetes foot. And this can be prevented by good care of diabetic foot.
How to identify diabetes foot?

Here are some of the important early warning signs of foot problems-

By damaged Nerves: -

Tingling and numbness in your feet
Feet paining in the night time
Less sweating
Dry skin..
By damaged blood vessels: -

Shiny smooth skin
Legs cramps
Hair loss on feet and legs
Changes in color and shape of your feet
Ulcerated wounds
Pain..
By the Infection -

Swelling
Raised temperature
Pain
Difficulty in movement
Pus..
Daily Skin Care:

Wash and dry your feet regularly.
Keep your feet soft by applying moisturizers, but not between the toes.
Pat your skin dry, also between your toes.
Do not soak feet.
Use a mirror to inspect the top, sides, bottom of the feet and between the toes or else take someone’s help to sort out.
Consult your doctor immediately once you notice any cuts, blisters, sores, swelling, redness or bruises on your feet and toes.
Do not use electric blankets or heating pads on your feet.
Make sure that water is not too hot or cold before washing.
Avoid exercising when your feet have open sores.
Do not stand in one position for a long period of time.
Toe Nail Care:

Cut your toenails once in a week but not too short.
Do not cut in to the corners and cuticles.
Trim your toe nails properly.
Remember to cut your toe nails only after bathing.
Consult your doctor for the correct way of performing regular toe nail care.
Shoe Etiquette:

Wear only closed and broad well fitted shoes
Always use chappals, sandals or shoes that protect your feet.
Wear socks that are well fitted to your feet and avoid socks that are too tight below your knee.
Do not walk bare footed and wear socks with shoes.
Make sure of not having sharp edges or objects in your shoes that injure your feet.
Do not walk or exercise with uncomfortable shoes.
Do not use high heels, flip-flops, thong sandals and pointed toes.
Wear cotton and wool socks or cotton-wool blend socks.
Wear dry and clean socks
Make sure that inside of the shoe must be soft without rough areas.
Control diabetes by following these simple steps-

Take your diet as per the meal plan (balanced diet including fresh fruits and vegetables)
Daily exercises
Modify your lifestyle
Regular medical examinations
Managing your high blood pressure
Following your prescribed medication.