ORIGINS
Diabetic foot is caused by a combination of factors:
- Diabetic neuropathy: damage to the nerves that can lead to loss of sensation in the feet. This insensitivity may prevent you from feeling injuries, heat or cold, which can delay treatment and increase the risk of infection.
- Diabetic arteriopathy: a narrowing of the arteries that reduces blood flow to the feet. This can slow wound healing and increase the risk of infection.
- Dry, cracked foot: Dry, cracked skin can create entry points for bacteria, increasing the risk of infection.
CHARACTERISTIC SIGNS
It is important to know the signs and symptoms of diabetic foot so that you can see a doctor quickly. They may include:
- Loss of sensation in your feet: You may not feel pain, heat, or cold.
- Numbness or tingling in the feet
- Changes in color of the skin of the feet: redness, paleness or cyanosis (bluishness)
- Cold feet
- Dry, cracked skin
- Calluses
- Thick, yellow nails
- Wounds or sores that don't heal: Even minor wounds can take time to heal and can become infected easily.
- Infection: Redness, warmth, pain, swelling and discharge of pus are signs of infection.
COMPLICATIONS
If diabetic foot is left untreated, it can lead to serious complications, such as:
- Infection : Foot infections can spread quickly and become serious and even life-threatening. They can affect bones and joints, and may require hospitalization or amputation.
- Diabetic Foot Ulcers : Ulcers are open sores that can be difficult to heal and can become infected. They can be very painful and can cause loss of mobility.
- Gangrene: Gangrene is the death of tissue due to lack of blood circulation. It can cause severe pain and may require amputation.
- Amputation: in the most severe cases, it may be necessary to amputate the foot or leg. Amputation can have a significant impact on quality of life and can lead to physical and psychological complications.
PREVENTION
It is possible to prevent diabetic foot by following these tips:
- Control your blood sugar: Maintaining good blood sugar control is the best way to prevent complications of diabetes, including diabetic foot.
- Inspect your feet daily: look for injuries, redness, swelling or color changes. Use a mirror to examine hard-to-see areas.
- Wash your feet daily: Wash your feet with lukewarm water and mild soap. Do not use hot water or let your feet soak for too long.
- Moisturize your feet: Apply moisturizer to your feet after washing them. This helps keep the skin supple and prevents cracking.
- Wear shoes that fit well: Choose shoes that are not tight and have good arch support. Avoid high heels and shoes with pointed toes.
- See a podiatrist regularly: a podiatrist can help you take care of your feet and prevent complications. He can also prescribe orthopedic shoes if necessary.
In addition to these tips, it is important to:
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Quit smoking: Tobacco can worsen blood circulation and delay wound healing. It is therefore essential to quit smoking to prevent diabetic foot complications.
Eat Healthy: A healthy, balanced diet can help maintain good blood sugar control and prevent diabetes complications. It's important to eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. You should also limit the consumption of saturated fats, added sugars and sodium.
- Exercise regularly: Physical exercise is essential for overall health and can help prevent diabetes complications. It is recommended to do at least 150 minutes of moderate physical activity or 75 minutes of vigorous physical activity per week.
Other important tips:
- See your doctor regularly: It is important to see your doctor regularly to monitor your diabetes and detect diabetic foot complications.
- Have your feet examined regularly by a podiatrist: A podiatrist can help you care for your feet and prevent complications.
- Wear suitable shoes : It is important to wear shoes that fit well and provide good arch support.
- Apply a moisturizer to your feet regularly: This keeps the skin supple and prevents cracking.
- Don't cut your nails yourself: Ask a professional to cut your nails to avoid injury.
By following these tips, you can reduce the risk of diabetic foot complications and improve your quality of life.
Do not forget :
- Diabetic foot is a serious condition that can cause serious complications.
- It is possible to prevent diabetic foot by following the tips above.
- It is important to see a doctor promptly if you have signs or symptoms of diabetic foot.
Additional Information :
- French Federation of Diabetics: https://www.federationdesdiabetiques.org/
Key words: diabetic foot, diabetes, neuropathy, infection, amputation, prevention, care, hygiene, shoes , blood sugar control, smoking, healthy eating, physical exercise.
