Diabetic Feet Exam Symptoms

Diabetic Feet Symptoms – Empire Foot And Ankle Center.

Diabetes is a condition that affects how your body regulates blood sugar. But how does diabetes contribute to foot problems? There is a simple explanation. Over time, high blood sugar can damage nerves and blood vessels throughout your body, including those in your feet. This can lead to a variety of foot problems that require special care and attention.

Why Does Diabetes Affect Feet?

There are two main reasons why diabetes can affect your feet. Let’s discuss them briefly below.

Nerve damage (neuropathy).

High blood sugar can damage the nerves in your feet, leading to a loss of feeling. This can make it difficult to feel injuries, such as cuts or blisters, which can then become infected.

Poor circulation.

Diabetes can also narrow the blood vessels in your legs and feet. This reduces blood flow, making it harder for wounds to heal and increasing the risk of infection.

These combined effects can lead to serious complications, including ulcers, infections, and even amputation. However, with proper care and management, you can significantly reduce your risk of these problems.

What are the Common Foot Diabetes Symptoms?

Because nerve damage can cause a loss of feeling, it’s important to be extra vigilant about checking your feet for any signs of problems. Here are some symptoms to watch out for diabetic feet problems:

Changes in skin color or temperature – Your feet may appear red, pale, or cool to the touch.

Dry, cracked skin – This can be a sign of poor circulation and can increase your risk of infection.

Swelling – This can occur in one or both feet and may be accompanied by pain.

Ingrown toenails – These can be painful and become infected if not treated promptly.

Blisters or calluses – You may not feel these due to nerve damage, but they can break open and become infected.

Drainage or pus – This is a sign of an infection and requires immediate medical attention.

If you notice any of these symptoms, we recommend seeing our podiatrist at Empire Foot and Ankle Center right away. Early diagnosis and treatment can help you prevent serious complications.

Common Diabetic Foot Problems and How to Prevent Them.

There are several foot problems that are more common in people with diabetes. Here are a few to be aware of:

Foot ulcers
These are open sores that can develop on the bottom of your foot. They can be difficult to heal and become infected.

Charcot foot
This is a condition that causes a loss of bone and joint stability in the foot. It can lead to a deformed foot shape and make it difficult to walk.

Gangrene
This is tissue death that can occur when there’s not enough blood flow to an area. It can be life-threatening and may require amputation.

The good news is that there are many things you can do to prevent these problems:

Maintain good blood sugar control.
Inspect your feet daily.
Wash your feet daily.
Moisturize your feet.
Wear proper footwear.
See your podiatrist regularly.

By following these tips and working with our healthcare team at Empire Foot And Ankle Center, you can keep your feet healthy and prevent complications from diabetes. Feel free to contact us to learn more about diabetic foot problems and get effective treatment.

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