Diabetic foot is a complication of diabetes that affects the feet and can lead to serious health problems if left untreated. It is caused by high blood sugar levels over a prolonged period of time, which can damage nerves and blood vessels in the feet and legs.
Symptoms of diabetic foot may include:
If left untreated, diabetic foot can lead to serious complications such as:
The exact causes of diabetic foot are not fully understood, but high blood sugar levels over a prolonged period of time can damage nerves and blood vessels in the feet and legs. This damage can lead to poor circulation and a reduced ability to feel sensation in the feet, which can increase the risk of developing foot ulcers and other complications.
Risk factors for diabetic foot include:
People with diabetes who have poor circulation, nerve damage, or foot deformities are also at increased risk
Treatment for diabetic foot typically involves a combination of lifestyle changes, medication, and specialized care.
Specialized care for diabetic foot may include regular foot exams by a healthcare professional, daily foot care at home, and specialized footwear or orthotics to help protect the feet and prevent further damage.
Preventing diabetic foot is key, and this can be achieved through proper management of diabetes, including regular blood sugar monitoring, following a healthy diet, engaging in regular exercise, and quitting smoking.
If you have diabetes, there are several things you can do to help prevent diabetic foot:
Treatment options for diabetic foot can include wound care, antibiotics, blood sugar control, and in some cases, surgery.
Maintaining good blood sugar control, daily foot inspections, wearing appropriate footwear, and regular foot exams by a healthcare provider can all help prevent diabetic foot.
Healthcare provider who specializes in treating diabetic foot, such as a podiatrist or a wound care specialist, may be the best choice for treatment.
In severe cases, diabetic foot can lead to the need for amputation. However, with proper care and management, the risk of amputation can be reduced.