With over 30 million people in India grappling with diabetes, the risk of diabetes-related foot complications is a significant concern. Foot infections, accounting for more than 50% of foot amputations, underscore the critical need for meticulous diabetes management. This article delves into the ways diabetes can cause foot issues, emphasizing the importance of including a podiatrist in the diabetes care team to prevent and address potential complications.
Diabetes and Foot Complications: Untreated diabetes, characterized by elevated blood sugar levels, can lead to nerve damage and poor circulation in the feet and legs. Peripheral vascular disease, diabetic neuropathy, calluses, corns, and diabetic foot ulcers are common complications that can result from the impact of high glucose levels.
Peripheral Vascular Disease: Reduced blood flow, a consequence of high glucose levels, contributes to peripheral vascular disease, hindering wound healing and increasing the risk of infection and gangrene. Gangrene, characterized by tissue death, represents a severe complication.
Diabetic Neuropathy: Diabetic neuropathy, a prevalent form of nerve damage in diabetes, manifests as pain, weakness, numbness, and tingling in the feet. Neuropathy diminishes awareness of cuts or bruises, elevating the risk of infection. Approximately half of all diabetics experience some level of nerve damage.
Calluses, Corns, and Foot Ulcers: Calluses and corns, arising from friction against shoes, can escalate into more serious issues if not addressed promptly. Foot ulcers, characterized by sores on the foot's ball or big toe, result from continuous rubbing and can lead to infections, posing serious complications.
Prevention Strategies: Diabetics can take proactive measures to protect their feet. Daily foot checks, gentle cleansing, moisturization, and annual visits to a podiatrist are essential components of a comprehensive foot care routine.
The Role of a Podiatrist: A podiatrist plays a pivotal role in diabetic foot care, conducting thorough assessments, testing nerve function, and promptly addressing any identified issues during annual visits. Early detection and intervention significantly reduce the risk of complications.
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