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Diabetic Foot Symptoms: 7 Hidden Signs of High Blood Sugar Level That You Might See on Your Feet

Diabetes And Feet: Abnormal high blood sugar levels commonly cause liver and kidney problems, but did you know they can also cause problems with your feet?

Published: September 2, 2022 4:41 PM IST

By Onam Gupta

Diabetic Foot Symptoms: 7 Hidden Signs of High Blood Sugar Level That You Might See on Your Feet
Diabetic Foot Symptoms: 7 Hidden Signs of High Blood Sugar Level That You Might See on Your Feet

Diabetic Foot Problems: 415 million in the world are suffering from diabetes. These include men, women, and children from all races. One of the most important things that most people often ignore or are not aware of is diabetic foot care. Abnormal high blood sugar levels commonly cause liver and kidney problems, but did you know they can also cause problems with your feet? High blood sugar levels increase the risk of nerve damage (diabetes-related neuropathy), circulation problems, and foot injuries. It is possible for your feet to become numb. Diabetic foot problems and care by Dr. Rinky Kapoor, Consultant Dermatologist and Dermato-Surgeon, The Esthetic Clinics spoke to India.com and talks about few serious signs and symptoms of diabetic foot problems and how to take care of them.

Being diabetic reduces the blood flow to your feet causing nerve damage that takes away the feeling in your feet. This condition is calling diabetic neuropathy. Since you cannot sense the pain, even a minor injury can become very serious.

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SERIOUS SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF DIABETIC-RELAED NEUROPATHY

  1. The common symptoms are pain, burning, tingling and numbness in legs and feet.
  2. Difficulty in injury healing and resistance to infection because of hindered blood flow. The blood vessels become narrow and hard, and blood does not flow the way it should.
  3. Foot ulcers that affect the ball of the foot or under the big toe. They should be shown to the doctor immediately even if they do not hurt.
  4. Foot deformities that change the shape of the feet.
  5. Gangrene that causes decay and death of tissue and might raise the need of amputation.
  6. Skin changes such as dryness, cracks, damage to heels, scaling, broken skin between toes, peeling
  7. Calluses because of high pressure areas under the foot. These calluses and corns can turn into ulcers if not treated in time.

LOWER THE RISK OF DIABETES FOOT PROBLEMS BY DOING THE FOLLOWING

  1. The best thing you can do for your feet is to ensure that your sugar levels remain under check, and you are exercising regularly.
  2. Take your medications regularly and on time and do regular sugar level checks.
  3. Keep a close eye on your feet. Check them regularly for any injury , cuts, or ulcers. If you notice anything then consult your doctor immediately
  4. After bathing dry your feet properly and moisturize with an unscented cream or jelly. Take care not to apply anything in between the toes.
  5. If you want to soak your feet then do so in warm water only
  6. Quit smoking
  7. Shy away from activities that can cause injury or burns to feet such as walking barefoot, using hot water bottle, working in dirt and mud.
  8. Do not pop the blisters or try to self-medicate them without guidance.
  9. Trim your nails straight and avoid cutting the cuticles
  10. Wear clean and dry socks. Chose your socks and shoes carefully. The shoes should be well fitting, and socks should be cotton ones. Keep your feet warm and dry at all times

If you find any such serious signs and symptoms on your feet, then consult your doctor immediately 

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