Common complaints for most Diabetics are fatigue, blurred vision, unusual hunger and a frequent need to urinate. However swollen feet, which can lead to leg pain and nerve damage (neuropathy), often go overlooked or ignored. If left untreated, your periodic pain can quickly transform into irreparable nerve and blood vessel damage and in serious cases, amputation of your foot or entire leg. So, diabetics should check their feet every day, and if they have swelling or pain then they should take the appropriate steps such as calling their doctor.
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Often due to prolonged sitting, decreased level of mobility, and reduced physical activity, diabetics experience the most severe swelling in their lower extremities like their legs and feet. Livestrong.com notes that Diabetics should massage their feet every day with prescribed creams, "lotions, oils or even petroleum jelly products to keep their feet smooth and moisturized." If your feet become dry then they will crack and bleed which may lead to infections, increased swelling or worsen circulatory issues.
Check your feet for cuts, scrapes and blisters on a consistent basis and be sure to trim your toenails. Long toenails can be difficult to maintain and if they are dirty, they too can lead to infections of the foot. To help maintain your foot health, make and keep regular appointments with your Podiatrist. Also, many Diabetics end up losing the feeling of pain in their feet because of nerve damage (Diabetes Charcot foot). It is for this reason that bruising, blistering and other injuries to the foot may go undetected or unreported (because there is no pain), which can lead to mild or severe foot ulcers.
Symptoms of severe ulcers include open wounds that are slow to heal, blackening skin and abscesses. Although there are surgical procedures to correct this, you should be sure to wear shoes that fit properly and have adequate support, especially when walking on tough surfaces.
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A lot of the preemptive steps to avoid foot swelling may fall into the, "if you can," category because different patients CAN do varying levels of preventative strategies such as exercise or drink "plenty" of water. However, you should try your best to be actively mobile, manage your glucose, and maintain a healthy, balanced diet; all of which will help to stop your foot from swelling. Work with your healthcare team to develop the best treatment plan that works for you.
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Livestrong Contributor. "Facts on Diabetes And Feet Swelling." Http://www.livestrong.com/. Demand Media, Inc.
Cason, C. "Diabetes and Swollen Feet." Http://www.informationaboutdiabetes.com/. Information About Diabetes.
"Diabetes Foot Problems: Symptoms And Treatment Of Diabetes Foot Problems." Http://www.everydayhealthadvisor.com/. Everyday Health Advisor.