Foot Care in Diabetes

How diabetes affects my body?
Diabetes causes your blood sugar levels in the blood to be higher than normal. Over time, high levels of blood sugar can damage blood vessels and nerves in your body. Damage to the nerves means that you may have burning pain or lose feeling in a part of your body (this is called diabetic neuropathy). Damage to blood vessels in your feet means that your feet can not get a good blood supply.

Why should I worry more about my feet?
People with diabetes often have problems with their feet. Part of the problem is that the loss of feeling in your feet makes it difficult to know if you have a blister or sore. If little sores are not taken care of, which may worsen and become ulcers (serious, deep sores). If these ulcers are infected, you may have to go to hospital or, in very serious cases, have one foot amputee (retired). This brochure will give you some tips on caring for your feet.

How can I avoid problems with my feet?
Keep your blood sugar as close to normal as possible. In addition, follow your doctor's advice about diet, exercise and medication.
Here are some other ways to protect your feet:
* Wash your feet every day with lukewarm water (not hot) water and mild soap.
* Dry your feet, especially between the toes. Use a soft towel and gently Pat, do not rub.
* Keep the skin on the feet without problems by applying a cream or lotion, lanolin, especially on the heels. If the skin is cracked, talk to your doctor about how to treat it.
* Keep your feet dry powder with the nonmedicated powder before putting on shoes, socks or stockings.
* Check your feet every day. You may need a mirror to look at the bottom of his feet. Call your doctor at the first sign of redness, swelling, pain that does not go away, or numbness or tingling in any part of your foot.
* Do not treat calluses, corns or bunions without talking to your doctor first.
* Cut toenails straight across to avoid ingrown toenails. Could help soak your toenails in warm water to soften before cutting.
* Do not let your feet too hot or too cold.
* Do not walk barefoot.

What should I look for when choosing shoes and socks?
* Do not wear shoes without socks.
* Do not wear sandals or other open-toed shoes.
* Avoid high heels and shoes with the toes pointed.
* Use well-padded socks or half that are 1 / 2 inch longer than your longest toe. Do not wear socks stretch nylon socks, socks with an elastic or league at the top, or socks with seams inside.
* Do not wear tight or uncomfortable shoes that rub or cut into their feet. If you've had problems before because of shoes that do not fit, you may want to be fitted with a custom-molded shoes.
* Talk to your doctor before you buy special shoes or inserts.
* Shop for new shoes at the end of the day when your feet are slightly swollen. If the shoes are comfortable when your feet are swollen, probably be comfortable all day.
* Break in new shoes slowly with the use of them for no more than an hour a day for several days.
* Change socks and shoes every day. Have at least 2 pairs of shoes so you can change all the pairs another day.
* Look inside your shoes every day for things like gravel or torn linings. These things could rub against your feet and cause blisters or sores.

How often does my doctor check my feet?
Your doctor or nurse should periodically review their feet when you go for a visit. If you have any problems, such as loss of feeling, sores or ingrown toenails, tell your doctor right away.

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