If you were diagnosed with Diabetes, you may have been suffering from a host of foot problems for some time now. As your doctor may have explained to you, a diagnosis for diabetes comes along with a host of complications such as nerve damage and peripheral neuropathy among many others. These complications, when left untreated, will result in loss of sensation in your lower extremities. This can be detrimental to a diabetic’s health as loss of feeling is most likely to result in injuries, skin infections, and ulcers as well.
Diabetes heavily compromises the ability of the body to recuperate efficiently, thus wounds take slow to heal, which in turn leads to more nasty infections, and in worst cases, amputation.
Diabetics need to strictly observe foot care guidelines in order for them to avoid the nasty complications brought about by their disease. Awareness of diabetes do’s and don’ts will also reduce the expenses associated with making appointments with a doctor on a regular basis. These foot care tips can be performed right at the comforts of your own home.
Diabetic’s DO List
– Do check your blood sugar levels regularly. Make sure that they are under control by taking medications on time. The risk for infection and development of complications are greatly reduced when diabetics follow the schedule for medication to the letter.
– Do wash your feet regularly. It is recommended that diabetics wash their feet with soap and lukewarm water once in the morning, and then once before turning in. Aside from washing, diabetic should also remember to dry them after to avoid the buildup of moisture, which may compromise the integrity of the feet. You may also want to apply talcum powder after drying. Make sure that there is no moisture in between the toes as this may result in the development of other foot disorders such as athlete’s foot among others.
– Do strive to loss excessive weight. Obesity is one of the predisposing factors in the development of diabetes. By slowly reducing weight, you are successfully taking your blood sugar levels down to normal range.
– Do check in with your podiatrist once in a while to ensure optimal foot health, despite the presence of diabetes.
Diabetic’s DON’TS List
– Do not wash your feet with hot water as this may burn your skin without you feeling it. Burns will make your feet more susceptible to infection.
– Do not walk around barefoot. The reduced sensation or feeling in your feet will make it harder for you to recognize if you have been injured while walking barefoot. If possible, wear protective footwear to avoid the incidence of injuries and accidents.
– Do not treat your injuries or infections with over-the-counter medications. It is wise to seek the help of a doctor in order to properly diagnose the infection. Your doctor will provide you with the right type of medication to aid in fast recovery and healing of infected wounds.
