Diabetes is a disease that has many different complications that affect your organs and your extremities. Complications with the lower extremities are common in diabetics, and they can result in devastating and debilitating problems. It is important to be aware of how to prevent foot problems if you are diabetic and have other risk factors.
Risk Factors
Diabetics have a higher risk for peripheral arterial occlusive disease, or conditions that cause problems with circulation, according to the American Academy of Family Physicians. Neuropathy, or loss of sensation because of nerve damage, is another complication that can affect the feet. Loss of sensation can lead to injury because the affected person may not know that an injury has occurred.
Types of Foot Problems in Diabetics
Peripheral arterial occlusive disease and neuropathy can lead to foot wounds or ulcers. Diabetics may have structural deformities such as bunions, calluses or hammertoes. These conditions can lead to foot ulcers or wounds as well. Foot wounds and ulcers can then lead to amputation if they cannot be resolved.
Prevention
Foot problems can be prevented through careful inspection of feet daily, and consistent care of feet. Bunions, calluses, thick toenails and other foot deformities should be attended to by a podiatrist. Feet should be washed daily and moisturizer applied to all areas except between the toes. Well fitting shoes, or the use of diabetic shoes can help to prevent complications. According to the American Diabetes Association, exercise can help with poor circulation.
Amputations
Diabetics are at risk for amputations of part of the foot or the both feet, especially when they have poor circulation. According to the American Academy of Family Physicians, diabetic foot ulcers are the most common reason for lower extremity amputations. These amputations can be debilitating and lead to a decrease in quality of life.
Smoking and the Feet
In addition to being bad for the lungs, smoking can lead to poor circulation in the lower extremities. This combined with diabetes can be a recipe for disaster. Persons who are diabetic and smoke should quit for their own health and the health of those around them.
References
- American Academy of Family Physicians: Diabetic Foot Ulcers Prevention, Diagnosis and Classification
- American Academy of Family Physicians: When You Have Diabetes--10 Steps to Healthy Feet
- American Diabetes Association: Foot Problems
- National Diabetes Information Clearinghouse: Preventing Diabetes Problems Keep your Skin and Feet Healthy
