diabetas, pėdų priežiūra - May 3, 2024

Diabetes mellitus. How to take care of feet with diabetes?

Foot care is a critically important aspect of the daily life of people with diabetes for several key reasons. First, due to diabetes mellitus, the normal blood circulation process is disrupted , especially in the extremities, such as the legs. This leads to reduced blood flow to the legs, which can lead to slower wound healing and an increased risk of infection. Second, diabetes often causes nerve damage called neuropathy, which reduces sensation in the feet. Because of this, a person may not notice small wounds, scratches or other damage caused by diabetes, which in turn can lead to more serious medical complications, including infections or even leg amputation. diabetes mellitus

Daily foot care rules for diabetes

Daily foot care is an essential part of the health care of people with diabetes, helping to prevent complications such as infections, wounds, and long-term problems with skin and nerve damage. Here are some detailed rules for daily foot care: diabetes

Regular foot examinations: People with diabetes should carefully examine their feet daily , including between the toes and the bottoms of the feet, for any skin lesions, including cracks, blisters, redness, or ulcers. It is recommended to use a mirror or ask a family member for help if it is difficult to see all parts of the foot yourself.
Gentle washing and drying: Feet should be washed in warm, not hot, water using mild soap. It is important to avoid hot water, as reduced sensitivity can prevent you from feeling excessively high temperatures, which can cause burns. After washing, the feet should be gently dried, especially between the toes.
Moisturize: After each wash, feet should be moisturized with a moisturizing cream or lotion, except between the toes, to prevent excessive moisture that can promote fungal infections . diabetes mellitus
Appropriate footwear and socks: Well-fitting, comfortable shoes that do not have internal seams or other elements that could cause friction or pressure should be worn. Socks should be seamless, made of breathable materials to reduce sweating and friction. Avoid wearing tight or high-heeled shoes, which can disrupt blood flow or cause uneven pressure on the feet.
Nail trimming: Nails should be trimmed straight, avoiding excessive shortening or rounding of the edges, which can lead to ingrown nails. If clipping the nails causes difficulties or any damage to the nails is noticed, it is better to consult a podiatrist. diabetes mellitus
Avoid frostbite and overheating of the feet: People with diabetes should avoid prolonged heating of the feet on heating devices or sunlight, as well as freezing of the feet in winter. It is recommended to wear appropriate warm or cooling footwear depending on the weather conditions.

Following these rules can significantly reduce the risk of complications such as skin infections, wounds and circulatory problems. Additional foot care recommendations for people with diabetes include: diabetes

Self-medication for foot pain or other problems without the advice of a doctor should be avoided. Some medicines can cause unwanted side effects or worsen the existing condition. diabetes mellitus
Avoid walking barefoot , even at home, because small foreign bodies, sharp objects or even rough surfaces can cause foot wounds that can be difficult to heal. diabetes mellitus
Physical activity is an important aspect of diabetes management, but it is important to choose exercises that do not put too much pressure on the legs . Swimming or cycling may be better options than running or jumping. Appropriate athletic footwear should always be worn.
It is important to visit a podiatrist regularly , who can check for signs of developing complications and provide more professional foot care. This can include a professional foot massage that improves circulation, skin treatment and nail care. diabetes mellitus

By following these guidelines, people with diabetes can avoid many serious foot-related health problems and maintain a high quality of life.

What are the most common foot problems with diabetes?

Diabetes is a chronic condition characterized by high blood sugar levels, and this can lead to a variety of foot health problems known as diabetic foot. These problems arise from the long-term consequences of diabetes , including nerve damage (neuropathy) and circulatory problems. Here is a comprehensive overview of the most common foot problems in diabetes:

Diabetic neuropathy: This is one of the most common complications where the nerves in the feet are damaged and the sensitivity in the feet is reduced. This means that minor injuries, scrapes or pressures can imperceptibly turn into more serious wounds, as the patient feels less or no pain.
Peripheral artery disease (PAD): This disease occurs when the arteries become narrowed and blocked, reducing blood flow to parts of the extremities, such as the legs and feet. PAL can cause pain when walking, slow wound healing, and increase the risk of amputation.
Various infections: People with diabetes are more prone to skin , nail and soft tissue infections due to reduced immune system function and poorer wound healing . These are usually bacterial infections, such as fungal infections such as athlete's foot.
Ingrown nails: Due to improper nail care or shoes that are too tight, people with diabetes may experience ingrown toenails. This can cause pain, inflammation and infections.
Foot deformities: Diabetic neuropathy can cause muscle imbalances and uncontrolled skeletal changes in the foot, resulting in deformities such as Charcot foot. Such deformities further increase the pressure on certain parts of the foot and cause wounds.
Dry skin and cracking: Decreased sweating function due to neuropathy can cause dry skin that is prone to cracking, especially on the heels. Cracks can become a direct path to infections.
Diabetic foot ulcers: These ulcers are very serious and common in diabetes. They are usually formed due to constant pressure or friction due to improper footwear or foot deformities. Due to slow healing and high risk of infection, they require intensive treatment and professional medical care. When treating diabetic foot ulcers, it is important to constantly monitor the condition of the wounds and follow strict hygiene. A variety of wound treatment methods are used, including modern wound care techniques such as different types of dressings to help maintain moisture balance, promote healing, and prevent infection. Regulating blood sugar levels is also important, as stable blood sugar levels help improve the healing process. diabetes mellitus
Plantar Fasciitis: Due to structural changes in the feet caused by diabetes and weight gain, plantar fasciitis sometimes develops, causing severe heel pain. Proper use of foot support and therapeutic exercise can help reduce symptoms. diabetes mellitus

All of these conditions require a multidisciplinary approach to treatment and management, involving podiatrists, endocrinologists, and infectious disease specialists as appropriate. Additionally, regular visits to your doctor help you identify complications early and take steps that can help prevent further health problems, including possible amputation. diabetes mellitus

Patients are advised to include daily foot care in their routine , avoid risky activities, take care of proper diet and lifestyle and follow all doctor's instructions to maintain good foot health and general well-being.