If not treated properly, diabetic foot can lead to amputation. Understand!
A diabetes is a chronic metabolic disease characterized by increased blood sugar. If not properly controlled, it can lead to several complications, of which diabetic foot is one of the most serious.
What is diabetic foot?
You high blood glucose levels in the body, they compromise blood circulation, reducing defense cells, hindering tissue healing and regeneration and causing damage to peripheral nerves.
In this way, the body ends up not being able to heal the wounds that appear, especially on the extremities, such as the feet.
“OR diabetic foot is a complication that occurs when a bruised or infected area on the feet, such as a blister, chilblain, or heat, develops into a larger wound that, if left untreated, can cause need for amputation“, explains the Dr. Aline Lamaitamember of the Brazilian Society of Angiology and Vascular Surgery.
What are the symptoms of diabetic foot?
You symptoms of the diabetic foot include:
- Loss of sensation in the feet;
- Frequent tingling sensation;
- Burning in the feet and ankles;
- Stinging and numbness;
- Weakness in the legs.
The doctor comments that, in many cases, diabetic foot is identified by the patient only when a wound or infection appears that does not heal, that is, when the condition is more advanced. According to her, this problem is the second cause of amputations in Brazil.
“Therefore, if you have a confirmed diagnosis of diabetes, when you notice the presence of any of the above-mentioned symptoms, the most important thing is that you look for a doctor to start treatment,” he warns.
How is diabetic foot treated?
The treatment of diabetic foot is determined according to the type of injury and the severity.
Measures such as the use of antibiotics and antimicrobial ointments, daily dressing changes and, of course, adequate diabetes control, including a balanced diet and regular physical activity, may be recommended.
Furthermore, surgical interventions it could be necessary. “The operation aims to remove the affected region and promote healing,” explains the specialist.
How to prevent diabetic foot?
To prevent diabetic foot, it is essential keep blood sugar under controlcarrying out the ideal treatment and adopting healthy lifestyle habits.
“The main cure is Go to the doctor and have your feet checked every six months, at least. Only a specialized professional can carry out an assessment and give the correct diagnosis, directing the patient to the most appropriate treatment.”
It is also recommended look at your feet carefully every daychecking for small wounds, blisters, red areas and changes in shape and color.
It’s also important give priority to soft shoes, comfortable, Closed AND Don’t press your feet. Sandals and flip-flops should be avoided, as should the habit of going barefoot.
“Other precautions include cleaning and moisturizing your feet every day, cutting your nails twice a month, not removing calluses, and making circular motions with your feet every 15 minutes to improve circulation in the lower limbs,” he adds.
Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
