Individuals with Diabetes are at high risk from numerous health problems including:

Heart Disease
Cerebrovascular events
Eye Diseases – Possible Blindness
Nerve Damage – Neuropathy
Amputation of foot or leg
Kidney Problems
Gum Disease
Damaged teeth

An additional health condition involving diabetes involves the feet, as Diabetes was one of the key causes for lower limb amputation in the year 2004.

Amputation is not surprisingly the last resort pertaining to challenges of the feet, but it is surprising how a minor cut or abrasion can lead to such extraordinary consequences in diabetic sufferers.

Why is the Foot at Risk?

Persistent high blood glucose levels can eventually damage the body’s nerves, causing a loss of sensation (neuropathy). Nerve damage can also cause pain in the legs, arms and hands creating problems in people’s everyday lives. Your GP or Podiatrist should check your feet on a yearly basis, which should include a sensory exam to check for loss of feeling.
Small cuts or abrasions on the neuropathic foot can go unnoticed if daily foot checks are not performed. The cut can easily become infected, which in turn leads to an infected ulceration and could eventually result in the loss of the lower limb. Therefore the importance of daily foot checks, foot care & Diabetes in general cannot be underestimated.
High Risk Factors Leading to Diabetic Foot Ulcers

A small percentage of diabetic patients develop foot ulcerations, some of which may lead on to amputation. The foot is at a higher risk of ulceration if the individual suffers from conditions such as vascular disease or neuropathy. However there are many other factors that can increase risk of ulcers such as: -

Cold feet or absent foot pulses
History of Foot Problems
Foot Deformities
Limited mobility
Poor circulation
Inappropriate shoes
Uncontrolled blood sugar levels

A painless abrasion or corn can steadily progress to a distressing foot ulcer, and if left untreated skin deterioration may occur.

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