For all those who thought that diabetes was a disease only related to sugar and sweets, this might force you to rethink! Diabetes can be even bitter for patients neglecting their feet ailments. Yes, the chances of a leg amputation due to sores, blisters and the like are 15 to 46 times higher in a diabetic than in a normal person. In fact, about 25% of all diabetic admissions in the United States and England are reported with foot complaints.

Even a slight sore in the foot can be a cause of worry for diabetics because of delayed wound healing mainly caused by raised sugar levels in the body. Furthermore, diabetes harms the nerve endings of the feet and renders them numb. This only increases the risk of a foot ailment since the patient cannot take pain to be an indicator of any impending disorder.

Therefore, early diagnosis becomes absolutely imperative to ward off any such possibility. The patient should be very careful regarding his feet and should have his feet and soles inspected regularly after a bath by his family and should consult a good doctor, in case of doubt. Another crucial thing that diabetics need to remember is that they cannot depend on their own eyes for thorough examination of their feet; hence family members are required to do the same. Poor eyesight is also fallout of diabetes and that needs to be attended as well.

The guide will help you keep a healthy stride.

  • Have your sugar levels checked regularly by your doctor and make sure to SHOW your feet at every visit.
  • Take care to protect your feet with thick cotton socks and suitable pair of comfortable shoes. Never go barefoot.
  • Bathe your feet daily with soap and water and moisturize well, saving the space between the toes.
  • A good look at the feet after a bath should become your daily mantra. Do not ignore the spaces between the toes and the sole of the foot. Dry them well.
  • In case of a wound, nurse the cut by cleaning it with soap and water and using an antibiotic cream. Do it several times a day for speedy recovery. However, if the sore refuses to settle down, rush to your doctor.
  • Trim your toe nails with extra care, cutting them straight across the top instead of the usual side curved style. This will prevent any dust or particle to enter your nail. You can also seek professional help for toe nail trimming.
  • Be persistent about treating an athlete’s foot or any kind of foot fungus. After trying your hand at over the counter creams, be sure to consult your doctor. Also heed thickened skin, calluses and corns seriously and it is best not to shave these on your own.
  • Do not get lured into using heating pads and hot water soaks. This is not for you as you are prone to nerve damage and you might never be able to hear your feet groan.
  • Listen to your heart and quit smoking! Keep your blood pressure and cholesterol under control and attempt to regulate blood circulation through proper exercises and regular walks.

By and large, a dose of caution and consciousness is all that diabetics need to be sure of where their feet are taking them.