Diabetic Foot is the condition where higher levels of glucose or blood sugar damage the nerves and blood vessels of the body. This leads to a decrease in the immunity of the body to fight infection in case of any injury. Most of the effects of diabetes are felt and seen on the foot which can quickly turn into serious illness. In most cases any minor foot injury turns into ulcers and infections, and may even lead to amputation of the feet. Therefore, one should be aware of the causes and symptoms of the condition in order to avoid any serious damage.
Causes
The condition usually develops in a person suffering from Diabetes. The risk factors which increase the chances of developing Diabetic Foot are:
- Poorly Fit Footwear: The most common cause is poorly fit shoes. They can cause red spots, blisters, corns, and calluses in the feet which can turn septic in people suffering from diabetes.
- Nerve Damage: Diabetes patients who have to be on foot for longer period and have poorly controlled diabetes are at a risk of having damage in the nerves. Such nerve damages can reduce the sensation in the feet due to which a person with diabetes may not be able to sense the minor injuries which can turn into infections.
- Other Infections: Infections like Athlete’s foot, Ingrown toenail may also lead to diabetic foot.
- Smoking: Smoking can cause damage to the small blood vessels in the feet and legs. The damage can hamper the process of healing and can cause major infections.
Symptoms
- Persistent pain at the site of injury
- Punctures
- Redness around the wound signifies infection
- Inflammation of the feet or legs
- Ulcers and blisters
- A sensation of warmth around the injured area
- Hard and shiny skin on the legs
- Interrupted growth of hairs
- Calluses and corns
- Seepage of pus from the bruise
- Fever
- Spreading of redness from the wound signifies worsened condition
Treatment
In case a diabetic patient suffers from an injury or wound, he must immediately seek the advice of an orthopedic doctor. If the above mentioned symptoms persist, there is an increased risk of the infection of the wound. Treatment for Diabetic Foot may include:
- Antibiotics: An orthopedic physician may prescribe an antibiotic depending on the severity of the condition. He may analyze the blood sugar levels before providing any medication. The patient should make sure to take the prescribed dosage of antibiotics to treat the condition completely.
- Surgery: In severe cases, surgery might be needed to heal the wound. The procedure may involve combination of treatments to give relief from the pain.
Intense care should be provided to people suffering from Diabetic Foot in order to save them from the extremity of the condition. The condition should not be ignored and the patient must immediately refer to an orthopedic physician in case of an injury.
