If you have diabetes, your blood glucose, or blood sugar, levels are too high. Over time, this can damage your nerves or blood vessels. Nerve damage from diabetes can cause you to lose feeling in your feet. You may not feel a cut, a blister or a sore. Foot injuries such as these can cause ulcers and infections. Serious cases may even lead to amputation. Damage to the blood vessels can also mean that your feet do not get enough blood and oxygen. It is harder for your foot to heal, if you do get a sore or infection.
Here’s how to take care of your feet and advice on when to get professional help.
There some tips if you have diabetes.
- See a podiatrist at least once a year.
- Keep your feet clean and free from infection.
- Wear shoes that fit well and don’t squeeze or rub. Ill-fitting shoes can cause corns and calluses, ulcers and nail problems.
- Never walk barefoot, especially in the garden or on the beach to avoid cuts and try to avoid sitting with your legs crossed so you don’t constrict your blood circulation.
- Get corns or hard skin treated by a podiatrist.
- Cut or file your toenails regularly.
- If you have diabetes, it’s important to stop smoking. Smoking impairs the blood circulation. It can seriously worsen foot and leg problems.