Diabetic Foot: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment, and Prevention

Diabetic foot, a condition of foot problems linked to diabetes mellitus, is common among people with diabetes. Both type 1 and type 2 diabetes can contribute to the development of foot issues. Symptoms associated with diabetic foot can be a result of nerve damage or blood flow problems, which are common in those with this disease. These problems can affect the skin or structure of the foot, leading to foot ulcers, infections, and changes in foot shape.

To understand why diabetes causes foot problems, it’s important to know that insulin, a hormone produced in the pancreas, regulates glucose levels in the bloodstream. In diabetes, the body either can’t produce insulin (type 1 diabetes) or can’t use it properly (type 2 diabetes), leading to increased levels of glucose in the blood. Over time, elevated blood sugar levels can damage nerves, causing peripheral neuropathy in the feet. It can also lead to peripheral artery disease, which affects blood circulation in the feet and legs.

Peripheral neuropathy is a common symptom of diabetic foot, characterized by numbness, tingling, and loss of sensation in the feet. This can make it difficult to detect foot injuries such as ulcers or cuts until they become severe. Additionally, impaired blood flow can hinder the healing process of wounds, potentially resulting in infections. If left untreated, infections and poor blood flow can lead to a serious condition known as gangrene, causing the death of skin, muscle, and other tissues in the foot.

Early stages of diabetic foot problems often go unnoticed, as the symptoms are not specific to this condition. However, recognizing these changes can help prevent further complications. Seek medical attention if you experience leg pain or cramps, numbness or difficulty sensing temperature, burning or tingling sensations in your feet, dry and cracked skin, hair loss on the feet and toes, fungal infections, thickened toenails, sores or blisters, swelling, redness or warmth in the feet, changes in foot shape, or pain that spreads from the toes to the knees.

Diabetic foot problems progress at different rates depending on the individual’s condition. Wagner’s classification system is commonly used to diagnose and treat diabetic foot wounds. This system categorizes wounds into several levels of severity, ranging from intact skin at risk to gangrene affecting the entire foot.

Untreated diabetes foot problems can lead to various complications, including non-healing ulcers and infections, corns and calluses, dry and cracked skin, muscle weakness, deformities, poor blood flow, and tissue death.

To support diabetic foot health, it’s crucial to choose appropriate footwear. Opt for well-fitting cotton socks without seams to minimize friction, and change them daily. Select shoes with a wide toe box and have your feet measured each time you purchase footwear. Avoid pointed-toe shoes and high heels, as they increase pressure on the toes. It’s advisable to rotate among several pairs of comfortable, well-fitting shoes to alleviate pressure on specific areas of the foot. Consult your healthcare provider about customized shoes or orthotic inserts to reduce the risk of foot ulcers.

At-home monitoring and foot care play a vital role in catching diabetic foot symptoms early, facilitating timely treatment and reducing the risk of amputation. Controlling blood sugar levels within the target range is crucial for protecting the feet from nerve and blood vessel damage. Additionally, regularly examine the feet for changes, wash them daily, moisturize, wear properly fitting shoes and socks, and avoid walking barefoot. Seek professional help for calluses, corns, and toenail trimming. Protect the feet from extreme temperatures and ensure overall foot hygiene.

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