Diabetes - FAQ's 1. What causes foot problems in diabetes?
.......a. Nerve Damage (neuropathy)
...........Reduces sensitivity (feeling) in the feet
.......b. Narrowed and hardened blood vessels (atherosclerosis)
...........Decreases the blood supply to the feet and legs
.......c. High blood sugar levels (hyperglycemia)
...........Prevents normal healing, increasing the possibility of foot infections
2. How can I lower my chances of developing foot problems?
.......a. Keep feet clean, dry, soft and safe
.......b. Inspect your feet for changes daily
.......c. Wear good, well fitting footwear.
...........Consult your chiropodist for advice on footwear specifics
.......d. Get help from a chiropodist/foot care specialist:
.................-- to cut difficult nails, reduce corns and callous
..................- to advise about safe footwear
..................- to treat special foot problems
3. How can I tell if I have nerve damage in my feet?
At the Ashburnham Chiropody Clinic, all patients with diabetes receive a full foot assessment to determine if there are any vascular and/or nerve problems in the feet. Report any tingling, burning, or pins-and-needles sensation to your doctor or chiropodist.
4. Will nerve damage ever get better, or go away? -
Unlikely.
But there are several things that can be done to prevent serious complications:
.......a. keep feet clean, dry and soft (use a recommended emollient/cream)
.......b. Protect your feet from injury
.................-- Wear socks and shoes when moving about
.................-- Never go barefoot
.......c. Inspect your feet daily
.......d. Change your socks at least once a day
.......e. Check inside your shoes for objects and for areas of fatigue
5. When inspecting my feet, what changes should I watch for?
Here are some guide-lines:
| Symptom |
Possible Problem |
| Changes in skin temperature |
|
| ......Hot |
Circulation is being cut off |
| ......Cold |
Infection or injury may be present |
| Breaks in the skin |
|
......Blisters
|
Rubbing over the area |
| ......Cracks or Cuts |
Entry for infection |
| ......Open Sores |
Healing is not happening |
| Size |
|
| ......Swollen Area |
Problem is starting under the skin |
| Colour |
|
| ......Blue Spots |
Recent injury that you could not feel |
| ......Red Swollen Area is Present |
Infection or inflammation |
| ......White Spots |
Poor blood supply to the area |
6. What other body parts are affected by my diabetes?
Nearly all parts of the body may be affected to some degree more commonly affected areas include:
.......a. Your eyes
.......b. Your kidneys
.......c. Blood vessels and nerves
Careful monitoring of the disease can significantly reduce the risk of complications in the future.
7. What medicines could I take for my foot problems?
No medicines, creams etc.
Consult your doctor or chiropodist first. NEVER use "home remedies"
.......a. Chemicals- may burn and damage the skin eg:
.................-- Corn plasters, foot soaks
.......b. Adhesives- may weaken or tear the skin eg:
.................-- Adhesive bandages, wraps
.......c. Instruments- pierce and cut the skin eg:
.................-- Scissors, razors, files
.......d. Supportive wraps - can restrict blood flow to the legs and feet eg:
.................--
Elastic support stocking, tight toe bandages/dressings
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