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The
Importance of Diabetes Foot Care for a Person With Diabetes
There are many physical side effects from the condition of diabetes; foot care is one of them. Heart problems, artery problems, hypertension and hypoglycemia are some of the other problems that are related to the disease. The problem with insulin resistance and high blood sugar are tied into creating long-term issues for the feet of a diabetes patient, namely because of their effects on circulation. Diabetes foot care may not be first on the list of ailments, but it is definitely an important one to examine. Diabetes Swollen Feet Swelling of the feet is caused by increased amount of fluids held in the muscles of them. There are a number of causes of swollen feet in relation to diabetes: Lack of discipline with diet (too many carbohydrates, sugar or fried food), misuse of medication (too much or too little can both cause problems), sodium retention and allergic reactions. Swelling can occur within a short period of time or it can progress and worsen throughout the day. Noticeable signs are puffy, shiny skin and possible bruising or indentations. Elevating the feet above the heart for an extending period of time will help the swelling (or ten minutes if at work). Diabetes Burning Feet Burning feet is caused by a condition known as neuropathy and poor circulation. Neuropathy means damage to the nerves. The burning feet sensation has also been described as a stabbing or a shooting pain and can also include a tingling sensation. It is the first sign of deeper damage to the nerves in the feet. This problem is related to hyperglycemia in diabetic patients. If this problem occurs, it is imperative that medical treatment is sought. Numb Feet Poor circulation by narrowing of the arteries will eventually lead to numbness in the feet. This is the last step of diabetes foot care. At this point, there may be no sensation at all in the feet. Sores or blisters may go unnoticed or undetected for long periods of time, leading to infection. If the infection(s) remain untreated, then the worst case scenario can be amputation. Treatment Diabetes foot care begins with the right shoes for diabetics. If there is a problem with swelling or poor circulation, it is a good idea to look into special inserts for diabetic patients or individuals with sensitive feet. This is more of a preventative measure, but can be used for treatment. The most important advice is to treat the diabetes and do all you can to make sure that your blood sugar level is normal and regulated. It is a good rule of thumb to check your feet on a daily basis to ensure that no signs are present. Good hygiene of daily washing of your feet will keep them clean and free of infectious opportunities. During extreme temperatures (both hot and cold) protect your feet and insulate them from the cold and keep them dry during the hot. It is also important to keep the circulation flowing by doing proper foot massage for diabetics-do not wear anything restrictive like tight socks or shoes. Do not cross your legs for any prolonged periods of time. By following these suggestions for diabetes foot care, there should be a much reduced chance of a problem occurring. Of the approximately 16 million individuals who have been diagnosed with diabetes in the United States, about 25% have reported problems with their feet. Do what you can to prevent becoming a part of that group. The Importance of Diabetic Foot Creams How Jobst sensifoot diabetic socks can help you take good care of your diabetic feet Using Zostrix Neuropathy Cream The Wonders of Medipeds Diabetic Socks |
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