With 10.5 lakh deaths each year, diabetes accounts for 42.2 crore cases worldwide. It is a chronic condition that occurs when the body fails to produce enough insulin or is unable to use the hormone efficiently, leading to high blood sugar levels. If left untreated, diabetes can affect different parts of the body, including the nerves. Also called diabetic neuropathy, the condition can lead to complications associated with the feet.
Speaking with the OnlyMyHealth team, Dr Rahul Chirag, Consultant-Internal Medicine, CARE Hospitals, Hitec City, Hyderabad, shed light on how diabetes affects the foot and the symptoms to beware of.
How Does Diabetes Affect The Foot
Diabetic peripheral neuropathy affects nearly 50% of adults with diabetes during their lifetime, according to a report by the Current Diabetes Reports.
Approximately 75% of diabetic neuropathies is distal symmetric polyneuropathy (DSP), says a research published in StatsPearl Publishing, adding, "Once peripheral neuropathy develops, the annual incidence of ulcer formation increases from less than 1% to greater than 7%. The three-year mortality for people with diabetes increases from 13% to 28% with an ulcer."
Also Read: Know The Risk Factors Of Type 2 Diabetes From An Expert
When it comes to diabetic foot infections, compromised blood flow is a major contributor, which can be triggered by trauma or pressure from ill-fitting shoes.
Therefore, it is important that diabetes patients take special care of their feet because high blood sugar levels can lead to a variety of complications that affect the feet and lower extremities, said Dr Chirag, listing down the common foot-related issues associated with diabetes:
Poor circulation: Diabetes can damage blood vessels, reducing blood flow to the extremities, including the feet. This can slow down the body's ability to heal and fight infections.
Foot ulcers: Nerve damage and poor circulation can lead to the formation of foot ulcers, which are open sores or wounds on the feet. These ulcers can be slow to heal and are prone to infection.
Foot infections: Because of neuropathy, diabetes patients may not feel injuries or infections on their feet, and if left untreated, these minor issues can quickly become severe infections.
Gangrene: In severe cases, untreated foot infections can lead to gangrene, which is the death of body tissue. Gangrene is a serious condition that may require amputation to prevent the infection from spreading to other parts of the body. Among people who develop a diabetic foot infection, 15-20% will require amputation, according to a review published in the American Diabetes Association (ADA).
Common Symptoms Of Diabetes On Foot
Some of the common symptoms associated with diabetic foot infections include:
- Numbness or loss of sensation in the feet
- Tingling or burning sensations
- Pain in the feet or legs
- Wounds, sores, or ulcers on the feet
- Swelling in the feet or ankles
- Changes in the color or temperature of the feet
- Ingrown toenails or fungal infections
- Deformities or changes in the shape of the feet
How To Reduce Risk Of Foot Infections In Diabetes Patients
To protect your feet and reduce the risk of infections and complications associated with diabetes, here are some tips you can follow:
- Keep blood sugar levels within a target range, which can help reduce the risk of neuropathy and poor circulation
- Check your feet daily for any signs of injury, redness, blisters, or sores
- Wear comfortable, well-fitting shoes and avoid going barefoot
- Trim your toenails straight across and not too short to avoid ingrown toenails
- Keep your feet clean, but make sure to dry them thoroughly, especially between the toes, to prevent fungal infections
- Use a moisturiser to keep the skin on your feet soft but avoid applying it between the toes
- Be cautious of hot or cold surfaces, as you may not feel temperature changes due to neuropathy.
- Schedule regular check-ups with a podiatrist or healthcare provider
If you notice any problems, such as cuts, sores, or infections, seek immediate medical attention; do not try to self-treat foot issues, and do not use over-the-counter treatments without consulting a healthcare professional
Conclusion
Diabetic foot infections are concerning as it can turn severe and even lead to amputations. If you have been diagnosed with diabetes, it is best to keep your blood sugar levels in check and follow proper foot hygiene. The best way to prevent them is by preventing the onset of diabetes in the first place. By eating healthy, limiting simple carbs, and exercising regularly, not only can you reduce your risk of diabetes, but you can also lower the risk of other health conditions.
