The Dangerous Relationship Between Diabetes and Your Feet
Have you been diagnosed with diabetes, or has your doctor told you that you are at risk of this illness? If so, your foot health is at risk.
What Is Diabetes?
There is a small gland in your body called the pancreas. It is responsible for the production of the hormone insulin, which is essential to proper regulation of blood glucose (sugar) levels. When the pancreas fails in part, or in full, diabetes occurs. The resulting uncontrolled levels of blood glucose cause complications throughout the body, including cardiovascular disease, kidney disease, and even blindness.
How Does Diabetes Affect Foot Health?
Diabetes poses two particular risks to foot health, diminished circulation and neuropathy. Both of these conditions can lead to sensations of cold, tingling and – worst of all – numbness. Then that lack of feeling can make it challenging for diabetics to notice small nicks. These can fester and become infected, morphing into diabetic ulcers, deep wounds that don’t respond to treatment can be difficult or impossible to heal. Infection, hospitalization, amputation, and even death can result.
How Can You Protect Your Feet?
If you have been diagnosed with diabetes, it is essential that you:
- Modify your diet.
- Take all medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
- Inspect your feet daily for changes to their shape or the condition of your skin.
- Be alert to cuts, blisters, or other potential problems.
- See a podiatrist like Stavros O. Alexopoulos at least once each year for monitoring and ongoing care.
Do you have diabetes, or do you have another concern about the health of your feet, ankles, or lower legs? A visit to your podiatrist is the best first step on the road to wellness. Schedule a convenient appointment in My Chicago Foot Expert: Stavros Alexopoulos, DPM’s modern, comfortable office today. Call our friendly, professional staff at (773) 561-8100 or click here to get started.
