Health & Medical Diabetes

Happy Feet in Diabetics!

"What do I need an X-ray for? It's just an ulcer!" Mr K exclaimed, but the doctor insisted he get it done.
Mr K was forty-seven years old and had been suffering from diabetes since fifteen years.
Just today he had suddenly noticed a big ulcer under his right big toe so he had rushed to see his doctor who asked him to immediately get his blood glucose levels done along with an X- ray of his foot.
What followed over the next few days was something he had never anticipated in his worst nightmare! The X-ray showed that the infection had spread to the bones of his feet.
Three months of repeated dressings, antibiotics, and insulin shots could not help save his foot which had to finally undergo amputation! What was most surprising, all the while the ulcer developed, he didn't have the slightest clue that something was wrong with his foot.
Knowing the consequences, it is obvious that, if Mr K had the faintest idea what was coming, he would have gone to any length to prevent it from happening.
Having a loved one suffering from the complications of diabetes has a profound impact on not only that individual but also the entire family.
In this article, we suggest simple measures for 'Happy Feet' in Diabetics.
What can I do for 'Happy Feet'? A lot of people postpone or avoid getting their blood glucose levels done regularly.
Diabetes is not going to go away if you look the other way and pretend that it does not exist.
If you are a diabetic, make sure you have your feet examined by your doctor once a year to check if diabetes is affecting the nerves of your feet.
If the nerves show signs of being affected by diabetes, you must examine your feet carefully every day for any red spots, sores, cracks, injuries, callosities, or peeling skin.
Make use of a mirror to examine areas of your feet that you can't see easily.
Any injury needs immediate medical attention.
Keep your feet well moisturized but ensure that the areas between your toes are always dry.
Always wear comfortable footwear of the correct size.
If your feet get cold, never use heat in the form of warm water or a water bag to keep you warm.
If your nerves are damaged, you may even burn your skin without feeling an iota of pain.
Instead use socks to keep yourself warm.
Although exercise is an important part of managing diabetes, never exercise if you have an injured foot.
One of the most essential measures for healing is giving the part rest.
Walking on that foot may even push the infection deeper.
And finally, 'Kick some Butt'! Smoking worsens diabetes and its complications.
Being able to prevent the complications of diabetes is the most commendable achievement for anyone suffering from diabetes.
Happy Feet will carry you to a Happy Future!


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