"Diabetes feet" refers to a range of foot problems that can occur in people with diabetes due to nerve damage (diabetic neuropathy) and reduced blood flow (peripheral vascular disease). These complications arise from prolonged periods of high blood sugar levels.
Understanding the Connection: High Blood Sugar and Your Feet
High blood sugar can damage both the nerves and blood vessels in your feet, creating several potential issues:
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Diabetic Neuropathy (Nerve Damage): Elevated blood sugar can damage nerves, leading to:
- Numbness or tingling in the feet.
- Loss of feeling in the feet, making it difficult to detect injuries.
- Pain or burning sensations.
-
Peripheral Vascular Disease (Reduced Blood Flow): Diabetes can narrow blood vessels, reducing blood flow to the feet. This can:
- Slow down the healing of cuts and sores.
- Increase the risk of infection.
- Cause pain and cramping in the legs and feet, especially during exercise (claudication).
Potential Foot Problems Associated with Diabetes:
Because of the combined effects of nerve damage and poor circulation, people with diabetes are at higher risk for several foot problems, including:
- Foot Ulcers: Open sores or wounds, often on the bottom of the feet. These can easily become infected due to reduced blood flow and impaired healing.
- Infections: Cuts, blisters, or other breaks in the skin can become infected. Poor blood flow makes it harder for the body to fight off infection.
- Calluses and Corns: These thickened areas of skin can develop due to pressure or friction. In people with diabetes, they can quickly turn into ulcers.
- Charcot Foot: A condition in which the bones in the foot weaken and can fracture, leading to deformities. This often occurs without the person even realizing it because of nerve damage.
- Fungal Infections: Athlete's foot and toenail fungus are more common and harder to treat in people with diabetes.
- Dry, Cracked Skin: Diabetes can affect the sweat glands, leading to dry skin that is prone to cracking and infection.
- Amputation: In severe cases, if infections are not treated promptly and effectively, amputation of a toe, foot, or part of the leg may be necessary.
Prevention and Management:
Preventing diabetes-related foot problems is crucial. Key steps include:
- Blood Sugar Control: Keeping blood sugar levels within the target range is essential.
- Daily Foot Inspection: Check your feet daily for any cuts, sores, blisters, redness, or swelling.
- Proper Foot Hygiene: Wash your feet daily with mild soap and warm water. Dry them carefully, especially between the toes.
- Moisturize Regularly: Apply lotion to your feet to prevent dry, cracked skin. Avoid applying lotion between the toes.
- Wear Proper Footwear: Choose shoes that fit well and provide good support. Avoid walking barefoot.
- See a Podiatrist Regularly: Schedule regular foot exams with a podiatrist.
"Diabetes feet" describes the foot problems arising from the combined effects of nerve damage and poor circulation caused by diabetes. Proactive management and preventative care are critical in mitigating these risks.
