Symptoms and Causes of Diabetic Foot to Help You Know You Have It
Diabetes can lead to a condition called diabetic foot, which is a complication that can arise from long-term uncontrolled blood sugar levels. When blood sugar levels rise too high for too long, it increases the risk of infection. But it also damages blood vessels and nerves, particularly in the extremities like the feet.
It can lead to a loss of sensation in the feet, making it difficult for people with diabetes to feel cuts, sores, or injuries. In this article, we will discuss the symptoms and causes of it, as well as its treatment options.
What is a Diabetes-related Foot Problem?
Foot problems are very common in people with diabetes. According to the National Library of Medicine, lifetime risk of foot ulcers ranges from 15 to 25 percent. In addition, diabetic foot is associated with prolonged high blood sugar that leads to a combination of peripheral artery disease (PAD) and sensory neuropathy.
Infections are likely to occur if left untreated, leading to a swollen foot and eventually even a gangrenous foot problem. At this point, the risk of amputation climbs dramatically.
Causes of Foot Problems in Diabetes
The combined effects of diabetic neuropathy and peripheral artery disease cause it. Diabetic neuropathy refers to nerve damage caused by high blood sugar levels. Its causes can have severe and ongoing effects. For example, it affects the sensation in the feet and can lead to foot injuries or infections and diabetic foot ulcer stages going unnoticed.
On the other hand, peripheral vascular disease results from poor circulation in the legs and feet caused by plaque buildup in the blood vessels. High blood sugar thickens the blood, decreasing the oxygen supply, and spurs plaque formation. It can lead to wounds and slow-healing injuries.
Foot care is crucial to prevent serious complications and maintain foot health in people with diabetes. It is important to work with a healthcare provider to develop a plan that is tailored to your specific needs and medical history.
Signs and Symptoms of Diabetes Foot Complications
It is a progressive condition, and early detection and treatment can prevent amputation and other serious complications. The following are some of the common signs and symptoms of a diabetic swollen foot:
Tingling or pins and needles in your feet
Loss of sensation in your feet or legs
Numbness in your toes
Cracks, corns, or calluses in your feet
Cold toes or changes in skin color
Ingrown toenail
Bunions or hammer toe
Peeling or cracking on soles of feet.
In addition to these symptoms, you may notice the signs of foot complications, including:
Blisters: Blisters are a common occurrence in diabetic feet and can be caused by ill-fitting shoes or walking in wet socks
Diabetic Foot Infections: These infections are very common. They can occur as due to cuts, blisters, or other foot injuries that become infected.
Gangrenous Foot: Gangrene is a serious complication and occurs when the tissue in the feet dies due to poor circulation.
Treating Diabetes-related Foot Conditions
Treatment for it varies depending on the stage of the condition and the underlying causes. The following are some of the treatment options:
Neuropathy: Treatment for diabetic neuropathy involves managing blood sugar levels, using nerve-pain medications, and engaging in physical therapy.
Foot ulcer: It starts with diabetic foot blister and can become a foot ulcer. Its treatment involves careful debridement during a foot exam, antibiotic and anti-clotting medications, and even surgery to alleviate pressure around the ulcer.
Its treatment involves careful debridement during a foot exam, antibiotic and anti-clotting medications, and even surgery to alleviate pressure around the ulcer.
Peripheral Artery Disease: Treatment for peripheral artery disease involves managing blood sugar levels, quitting smoking, and undergoing surgery or angioplasty to improve blood flow to the legs and feet.
Gangrene: In severe cases of gangrene, amputation may be necessary to prevent the spread of the infection.
Final Thoughts
Preventing diabetic foot infection issues by adequately managing blood sugar levels is the best action. Here are some foot care tips for preventing it:
Wear comfortable and well-fitting shoes.
Inspect your feet daily for cuts, blisters, or other injuries.
Keep your feet clean and dry.
Control your blood sugar levels.
At Prime Foot and Ankle Centers, our expert podiatrists are dedicated to providing the best care for the diabetic foot. If you are experiencing any symptoms, we encourage you to book a consultation with us today. Early detection and treatment of diabetic feet are crucial to preventing serious complications and amputation.
