Tips On Diabetic Foot Care

KNOW ABOUT DIABETIC FOOT CARE

Diabetes mellitus results due to ‘low secretion’ or ‘no secretion’ of insulin hormone. If diabetes mellitus remain untreated or remain uncontrolled then it can affect our body.

What is diabetic foot?

Due to low secretion or lack of secretion of insulin the sugar level in the blood level up, this results to damage to the nerves or blood vessels. Due to the damage  the nerves, the sensations get impaired. Thereby if there is any cut, blister then the body doesn’t respond to it, it remains ignored and unnoticed. Minor foot injuries can lead to ulcer and infections. Serious condition amputation is done.

Symptoms of Diabetic foot –

1. Mild to moderate pain can give the signal
2. Minor injuries or simple redness
3. Any new blister , wound or ulcer less can 1 inch can lead to serious problem
4. Warmth, redness or swelling by feet or legs are signs of infection or inflammation.
5. Constant itching in feet can be signed of infection or dry skin, which can cause the infection.
6. Any kind of corns or calluses developed in the feet can be removed with the professional help.
7. Constant numbness in the feet is the sign of the neuropathy. In this condition, a patient is more in risk in developing infections.
8. Higher fever with redness, swelling, warmth or any wound or ulcer on the legs is the sign of limb-threatening or life-threatening infection.

Detection of diabetic foot-

1. History and physical examination- History and type of diabetes. The examination includes temperature, pulse, blood pressure, respiratory rate and also an examination of the sensation and circulation in the feet and legs. Examine the wound or ulcer and to determine its depth.
2. Test in laboratory – it includes complete blood cell count, blood sugar test, kidney function ,liver enzyme test. A level of high white blood cell count suggests the seriousness of the infection.
3. X- Ray – this is done in order to find out the damage in the bone or arthritis.
4. Ultrasound – Doppler  is done to detect  blood flow through the arteries and veins of the lower extremities

How to take care of a diabetic foot –

1. Every day, check your feet
2. Everyday cleansing and washing of foot is recommended.
3. Skin should be kept soft and smooth by using moisturizer
4. Handle calluses and corn with care.
5. Feel your feet regularly and trim the finger nails.
6. Wear soft padded shoe and socks.
7. Protect your feet from extreme hot and cold.
8. Keep the blood flow to your feet.

Diet in diabetic food

Avoid high-calorie foods. The food should be rich in fiber and moderate protein. Red meat should be avoided. The frequent low-calorie meal should be recommended. Alcohol and red meat should be avoided.

So diabetic foot should be taken care properly otherwise, it can lead to amputation, mean losing a part of your body for lifetime. With simple diet and checking sugar level, we can manage the issues of a diabetic foot.