Diabetes is a disease that affects individuals of all ages. A number of complications can arise as a result. The Mayo Clinic notes kidney damage, vision problems, bone, joint, skin and mouth problems are possible. In addition, diabetes may cause severe foot damage. Examining your feet daily for blisters, cuts or reddened areas and managing blood glucose levels may help prevent problems.
Diabetic Neuropathy
Nerve damage is a complication of diabetes that affects the legs and feet. Often called diabetic neuropathy, nerve damage is painful and may lead to a loss of feeling in the feet. This can escalate to greater complications when feet become cold, hot, sore or cut and the loss of feeling prevents the individual from noticing the damage. The National Diabetes Information Clearinghouse reports nerve damage can lead to sores or infections of the feet.
Skin Changes
Diabetes affects the body internally and externally. External damage caused by diabetes involves the skin, particularly of the feet. The American Diabetes Association (ADA) notes problems arise when the nerves that control oil production in the feet fail, causing the skin to become dry, cracked and peeled. The ADA recommends pampering your feet and applying products such as petroleum jelly after bathing to seal in moisture.
Poor Circulation
Poor circulation is a complication of diabetes that causes problems in the feet. Circulation declines in diabetics when the blood vessels of the feet and legs narrow and become hard, according to the ADA. Poor circulation can lesson the body's ability to fight infection and heal upon injury. While you cannot always prevent the narrowing and hardening of the blood vessels, you can improve your circulation with exercise and by refraining from unhealthy habits such as smoking which can speed damage to the arteries. In addition, maintaining healthy blood pressure and cholesterol levels may help.
Ulcers
Ulcers may result from a multitude of factors associated with diabetes including poor circulation, skin changes and nerve damage. These issues, coupled with poorly fitting shoes or a lack of proper foot care, can cause an ulcer to form on the foot. The ADA reports neglecting an ulcer can lead to infection and in some cases--amputation. Even after an ulcer heals, the tissue is sensitive. To avoid further complications, many diabetics wear special shoes to protect the area.
