A diabetes mellitus diagnosis occurs when a group of metabolic diseases affects insulin secretion. Insulin affects the balance of glucose, commonly called blood sugar and the body's main source of energy. An excessive amount of glucose in the blood can lead to serious health complications, the Mayo Clinic reports. Diabetes can cause several problems in the feet.
Neuropathy
Diabetic neuropathy occurs from nerve damage as a result of having diabetes for several years. Signs of this diabetic complication can include tingling, pain or numbness, which often are first noticed in the feet. The onset of neuropathy can range from mild to sudden and severe. Neuropathy is common in diabetics, occurring in nearly 60 to 70 percent of people affected by the disease, according to the National Diabetes Information Clearinghouse (NDIC). Neuropathy can onset at any time but is more likely to affect individuals who have lived with the disease for 25 years or longer. High blood fat levels and blood pressure also may induce neuropathy. Neuropathy can further injury the foot by causing deformities. There is no known cure for the disease, but medications are available to treat the associated pain and discomfort.
Decreased Blood Circulation
Vascular disease, such as narrowing of the arteries, occurs frequently in diabetics and can reduce blood flow to the feet. Blood provides healing nutrients to the body's tissues; when blood supply decreases, it makes it more difficult for wounds to heal. In diabetics, this vascular disorder most often occurs in the feet, making them more susceptible to injury and skin breakdown. A tiny cut on the foot can turn into a larger problem if it goes unnoticed on a diabetic.
Foot Ulcers
Minor cuts, pressure points or abrasions can develop into ulceration on the foot in a person with diabetes. Foot ulcers on diabetics are the most common foot injury leading to an amputation, according to American Family Physicians. The ulcers tend to develop on the bottom of the large toe or the ball of the foot, although they can form anywhere. Sore spots on the sides of the feet created by ill-fitting shoes can turn into an ulcer. Wound treatments include proficient wound care, such as debridement and possible amputation. The best treatment against diabetic foot ulcers is preventive measures.
References
- Mayo Clinic: Diabetes
- American Family Physicians: Diabetic Foot Ulcers
- National Diabetes Information Clearinghouse: Diabetic Nueuropthies
- "Understanding Medical Surgical Nursing"; Linda Williams and Paula Hopper; 2003
