Foot Conditions Related To Diabetes - Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy And Diabetic Foot Ulcer

Diabetes can cause complications in many areas of the body, and the feet are no exception. Diabetes increases the risk of several problems that can be seen in the feet. Foot problems are the cause of the majority of the hospitalizations of diabetics. Most amputation of the lower leg or foot can also be traced to diabetes complications. Due to this elevated risk, diabetics should be aware of the possible complications related to their feet and of preventative actions that they can take to avoid these complications.

How can a disease like diabetes affect your feet? Diabetes can cause a build up of sugar in the blood vessels. Blood vessels are located all throughout the body, from your toes to your eyes. The blood vessels have to reach all areas of your body in order to deliver oxygen and energy to the cells so that they can continue working. High levels of blood sugar thicken the blood, causing bad circulation all through the body.

This resulting poor circulation is at fault for many diabetes related complications. A common foot problem for many diabetics is slowed wound healing. In a healthy person without diabetes, small cuts and scratches and bruises on the feet and legs are nothing to be concerned about, but for diabetics, such small wounds could be serious. The lack of circulation in the legs slows down the healing of these wounds and increases the risk of infection.

Damage to the nerves in the legs is another potential complication of diabetes as diabetes damages the nerves. Our nerves allow us to sense our surroundings. When the nerve is damaged, diabetic peripheral neuropathy sets in, a patient will slowly lose the sense of feeling in his or her legs. Aside from being uncomfortable, this is also dangerous. Without a nervous response, a person cannot tell if his or her feet are being scalded by the bathwater or squeezed excessively by tight shoelaces. Pain is a warning sign that something is wrong. Nerve problems can contribute to additional injuries in this way. Diabetic foot ulcer might develop and they allow a portal for infection to occur. Ulcers are caused by too much pressure on an area and the skin just "breaks down".

Between poor circulation, slowed wound healing, and nerve problems, there are many foot related issues that are caused by diabetes. Take a proactive step for yourself: visit the doctor regularly to be screened for nervous functioning. Inspect your legs and feet for cuts and scratches that may require care. If you notice wounds that are not healing as they should, see your doctor before it becomes infected.

Finally, avoid as many foot injuries as possible. Don’t walk barefoot or in sandals in order to cut down on small cuts. Wear supportive, comfortable shoes to avoid blisters. Take care of your feet so that they will keep working for you!

Next article: Cardiovascular Conditions Related To Diabetes - Heart Disease, Stroke, And Peripheral Vascular Problems