Foot care is an essential aspect of managing diabetes. People with diabetes are more vulnerable to foot problems due to impaired blood circulation and nerve damage. Furthermore, their body’s capacity to heal wounds and combat infections is compromised, making proper foot care essential in avoiding grave foot complications.
Taking the necessary precautions can help diminish the chances of further health issues occurring, especially when you have diabetes. If you have diabetes, taking adequate care of your feet is crucial to guarantee the best foot health. This article will explore how not managing or inadequately handling diabetes could lead to foot problems and how one should take preventive measures to manage these symptoms effectively, especially concerning feet when you have diabetes.
10 Easy Steps to Prevent Foot Problems
1. Get Help to Quit Smoking
It’s clear that smoking is detrimental to your health, but if you have diabetes, the risks are even greater. Smoking impedes blood circulation throughout your body, including to your feet which heightens the risk of amputation. Seeking help is always a good idea; take action now and ask for support from your healthcare team to quit smoking today.
2. Check your Feet Everyday
Taking the extra time to inspect your feet is especially important if you have diabetes. Whether you’re donning or doffing socks, look for any irregularities and see a healthcare provider immediately upon detecting anything abnormal. If it’s difficult for you to lift your feet, use a mirror to better look at their bottoms. Or, if need be and due to poor eyesight, solicit help from someone else to examine your feet more thoroughly.
3. Prevent Blood Sugar Spikes
Keeping your blood sugar levels in check is vital for reducing the risk of poor circulation and nerve damage to your feet, which could leave you susceptible to numbness, sores, or ongoing infections. If poorly managed, high or low blood sugar can even lead to amputation. To keep healthy and safe from these possible health issues, maintain a nutritious diet, exercise regularly, and take any medications your doctor prescribes.
4. Watch out, Cutting your Nails
Cutting your nails may seem straightforward; however, if you have diabetes, be wary of accidentally piercing the skin, which can result in further harm. Daily washing with a combination of soap and warm water is an effective means to maintain healthy feet and toes, yet take extreme caution when it comes to temperature testing before stepping into the bathtub. Too hot or too cold won’t do. Additionally, don’t let your feet soak for prolonged periods, as this will make them more prone to damage due to the softening of their natural defenses.
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5. Manage your Blood Sugar Levels, Cholesterol, and Blood Pressure
Keeping your blood sugar steady is imperative to prevent any further damage that could be inflicted upon your feet. Achieving the right balance of nutrition, exercise, and prescribed medication can be tough. Still, it will help you regulate your glucose levels more effectively – allowing you to progress quickly.
Elevated cholesterol and high blood pressure levels can be dangerous for those with diabetes, so it is essential to have your cholesterol and blood pressure monitored routinely. This will help lower the risks of any potential complications.
6. Eat Well and be Active
Gain support from a dietitian giving you direction on what to eat and how food affects your body. This will benefit you in managing diabetes and reducing the risk of serious foot complications. Chat with your healthcare team for advice if you are anxious about which activity to pick. They can suggest the best exercises for you based on your diabetes management plan.
7. Make sure your Footwear Fits
Don’t wear shoes or socks that are too tight, loose, or irritating. The right pair of footwear can make a difference in the health and comfort of your feet. Taking the time to choose shoes carefully is key; settling for a pair that doesn’t fit can have serious repercussions.
Therefore, make sure your footwear selections are meticulously chosen and perfectly matched with the rest of your wardrobe. Additionally, it’s important to pay attention to items like old insoles and stockings with holes and thick seams. All these details matter.
8. Use Moisturizing Cream Everyday
To maintain skin health, using an emollient cream is key. For optimal health and wellness, your healthcare provider can help you select the best option for your needs. Furthermore, it’s important not to use the cream between your toes as this could cause difficulties; similarly, talcum powder should be avoided to avoid any excessive dryness issues that might arise from clogging up those areas.
9. Don’t Use Blades or Corn Plasters
Taking care of your skin is essential for optimal health. Never try to remove the corn or toughened skin with plasters, blades, or other sharp objects, as this can lead to further damage and infection. When utilizing pumice stones, you should exercise caution and only use them in certain circumstances. If you’re dealing with corn or any other skin issues on your feet, consult a qualified podiatrist who will have the right solutions tailored to you specifically.
10. Get Expert Advice
It is highly suggested that a professional check your feet at least once a year. Even if everything appears in working order, taking the time for an additional examination and assessment can only benefit you. However, see someone quickly if something looks off, seek medical attention immediately.
After the check-up, ask your healthcare provider what kind of risk you have regarding any possible future foot issues; they should be able to explain and tell whether or not seeing an expert specialist might be necessary.
Final Thoughts
Caring for your feet is important not only if you have diabetes but also in general. Taking care of your feet can prevent many future problems and ensure that you stay healthy for many years to come. Consult your healthcare professional or Online Pharmacist to ensure you have the right tips and advice to ensure your feet stay healthy. You can keep your feet healthy and happy with the right guidance and care.
