Diabetes and Its Effects on Your Feet

Diabetes is a chronic illness that affects millions of people worldwide. It is frequently linked to problems with the eyes, kidneys, and heart. The impact on the foot, however, is one of the most dangerous but frequently disregarded side effects.

Diabetes considerably increases the likelihood of foot issues in its participants. The two main causes of this are inadequate blood circulation and neuropathy, or damage to the nerves. Neuropathy may diminish one's sense of pain, temperature changes, and even small injuries on one's feet. Simultaneously, inadequate blood circulation impedes the process of healing, rendering even minor wounds or blisters vulnerable to infection.

Numerous foot issues, such as the following, may result from these combined factors:

Foot ulcers: These are open sores that may become seriously infected and are very difficult to heal.

Amputation: In extreme situations, gangrene (tissue death) or unchecked infections may require an amputation.

Charcot foot: This disorder, frequently caused by nerve injury, is characterised by the disintegration of the foot's bones and joints.

If you have any of the above issues, visit a foot clinic in Mentone. A professional foot clinic can help you with any problem you face. 

Prevention Tips

For those with diabetes, taking good care of their feet is crucial to avoiding these terrible outcomes. This comprises:

Daily foot examinations: Look for cuts, blisters, redness, and swelling on your feet every day.

Proper Shoes: Wear shoes that fit properly and offer enough cushioning and support. Avoid wearing bare feet.

Consistent podiatry visits: Make regular appointments with a foot clinic in Moorabbin to monitor the condition of your feet.

Blood sugar regulation: For general foot health, blood sugar levels must be kept constant.

Give up smoking: Smoking increases the risk of foot problems by further reducing blood flow to the extremities.

By following these guidelines and collaborating closely with your medical team, you can considerably lower your chance of developing diabetic foot issues. Note that the best defence against more severe consequences is early discovery and treatment.

Prioritise foot care as a crucial component of managing your overall health if you have diabetes. You should pay attention to your feet!