Diabetes and Foot Care
Diabetics are susceptible to skin problems. In fact, diabetes can cause dehydration or dryness. It can further develop into itchy skin and irritations. This is because elevated blood sugar lessens the effectiveness of bacteria-fighting cells.
Skin infections include boils and carbuncles. If not properly treated, these infections can become a serious health risk. Yeast infections can also result. This is common in the underarms and genital-anal area. The most common type is candidiasis (moniliasis). This is a condition where the affected person suffer from severe vaginal itch or a rash under the breasts. Powders, creams and suppositories are usually recommended to treat the same.
Diabetes also decreases blood circulation. This is especially true in long-term diabetes thus, slowing the healing process of wounds and cuts. This happens because nerves in the feet may not be functioning well. At first, you may not feel the small injuries however, if they are not treated on time, they can become ulcerated or infected.
Observe a good feet hygiene. Wash your feet everyday with mild soap. Let them dry. Calluses may be buffed with a pumice stone. If your feet is dry, apply lanolin base cream however, if your feet perspire well, talcum powder must be used. Use a lanolin base cream to hold moisture in your skin. Keri-Lotion, Nivea Cream, and Eucerine cream contain lanolin, the one responsible for moisturizing the skin well. Udder cream has no added perfume. It is inexpensive and easy to apply. Wear clean, comfortable and good fitting socks and shoes. To avoid injuries, you can walk in shoes or slippers around the house or swim slippers when you are at the beach or pool.
You have to consult your podiatrist in cases when you have a puncture wound, cut, foot injury, red spots and difficult calluses. They may appear a simple problem however, it can develop into a horrible malady. If you notice any change in sensation in your feet, consult your doctor or diabetes educator immediately.
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