 |  | | | | Diabetic Foot Problems
luxury hotels DresdenDiabetes can contribute to foot problems in two ways. It can cause decreased feeling in the feet, so that injuries such as cuts and scrapes may go unnoticed, or it can cause decreased circulation to the feet, resulting in a reduced blood supply that may be insufficient to fight infection and heal wounds. The risks of developing foot problems can be greatly reduced if you follow the simple principles of foot care outlined here, and see your physician regularly. | | | discount hotels in CordobaWarning Signs of Diabetic Foot Problems
Inspect your feet every day. Remember, any injury to the foot or break in the skin is potentially serious in a person with diabetes. Therefore, look at your feet every day, especially between the toes. If poor vision or arthritis make it hard for you to inspect your feet, have someone else do it. Notify your physician if you notice: Puncture wounds Cuts or scrapes that do not heal Ingrown toenails Corns and Calluses Problems due to poorly fitting shoes Any injuries to the feet Discoloration, pain, redness, or swelling Pain in the calves during walking or exercise. | | | Footwear
Shoes that fit poorly can cause irritation and injury. Shoes should fit snugly, but not tightly. Make sure there is plenty of room for your toes. Avoid shoes made of plastic. Leather shoes allow your feet to breathe the best. New shoes should be broken in gradually. You should inspect the inside of your shoes daily for torn linings or foreign objects. Remember, diabetic patients sometimes have decreased sensation and can be unaware of something inside the shoe. Walking or running shoes may be helpful for some diabetic patients. If you have foot deformities, you may need special therapeutic shoes. Never go barefoot, even at home. Always wear shoes or slippers, especially in the dark. Remember, an unnoticed minor cut, scrape, or burn can rapidly lead to a serious infection in a person with diabetes. | | | | | | | | Take Good Care of Your Feet
Wash your feet everyday. Use warm (not hot) water, and mild soap. Do not put your feet in the water without testing it first with your hand, elbow, or a thermometer. Do not soak your feet unless instructed by your physician. Pat your feet dry with a soft towel, making sure to dry between the toes. Do not rub the skin too vigorously. If your skin is dry, or shows evidence of cracking, use a moisturizing cream as prescribed by your doctor. Never put the cream between your toes. Foot powder, used sparingly, can help if you have a problem with excessive perspiration. Change stockings daily. Do not wear stockings that have been mended or have seams because these can injure or irritate the skin. | | | | | Trim Your Toenails Carefully
Be very careful to avoid injury when you trim your toenails. Trim them frequently, straight across, being careful not to cut them too short. Do not dig into the corners of the nails. Use a nail clipper, emery board, or nail file. It may help if you soften your nails by soaking them in warm water for 10 minutes before cutting them. If nails are thickened and difficult to cut, see your physician. | | | | | No Home Surgery
Do not try to remove ingrown toenails. Do not use razor blades, scissors, or knives to remove calluses or corns. A minor cut can rapidly develop into a serious infection. Removal of an ingrown toenail, or a callus should be done by your physician. Your physician can also give you instructions on the use of an emery board or pumice stone for removing calluses at home. | | | | | Watch Out For Burns
Diabetic patients may have a loss of feeling in their feet, and may suffer a burn without knowing it. It is important that you check the temperature of hot water before you put your feet in it. Bath water should be a lukewarm temperature, between 85 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit. If you do not have a bath thermometer, test the water with your elbow. Do not use a hot water bottle or heating pad. Check with your physician before you use an electric blanket on your bed. Wear socks to keep your feet warm. Wear protective footwear at the beach or around swimming pools. Do not use chemical corn or callus removers, as they can cause chemical burns. Women should avoid tight pantyhose, panty girdles, elastic garters, and socks with elastic tops. If you see lines or indentations when you take off socks or undergarments, they are probably too tight, and may cause swelling of the feet. | | | | | Do Not Smoke
If you smoke, STOP!! Smoking narrows the blood vessels and decreases circulation to the feet. Smoking is not wise for anyone, and particularly dangerous for people with diabetes. | | | |
