Diabetic foot ulcers are a common complication of diabetes that can affect your feet down to the bones. They are formed due to skin tissue breaking down and exposing the layers underneath. Most often, foot ulcers occur under the big toes and on the balls of the feet. This article will discuss the causes, symptoms, risk factors, treatment options, and prevention of diabetic foot ulcers.
Causes
Diabetic foot ulcers can occur due to poor blood circulation and nerve damage in people with conditions like type 2 diabetes. Inefficient blood flow hinders ulcer healing, especially when high glucose levels slow down the process. Nerve damage causes a loss of feeling, leading to painless wounds that may develop into ulcers. Managing blood sugar becomes crucial in preventing and treating the disease.
Foot Ulcers are most commonly caused by:
- Poor circulation
- High blood sugar
- Irritated or wounded feet
- Nerve damage
Symptoms
Foot drainage that may stain your socks or seep into your shoe is one of the early indicators of a foot ulcer. This comprises:
- Common early symptoms include unusual swelling, irritation, redness, and odors from one or both feet.
- Black tissue, or eschar, around the ulcer is the most obvious indicator of a significant foot ulcer. This develops as a result of the surrounding ulcer receiving insufficient amounts of healthy blood flow.
Foot ulcer symptoms are not always evident. Sometimes, ulcer symptoms don’t even appear until the ulcer has developed an infection. It is suggested to see your doctor if you experience any pain around an area that looks callused or irritated, or if you see any skin discoloration, especially if the tissue has turned black..
Availability of Treatment Options
Depending on what causes them, foot ulcers have different treatments. Some common treatment options include:
- Antibiotics
- Wound care
- Debridement
- Surgery
There are many hospitals available in India that give top-notch treatment to this disease. One of them is Wockhardt Hospital. One of the most well-known medical facilities in India for treating diabetic foot ulcers is Wockhardt Hospital. Their top-notch facilities, advanced technology, skilled medical personnel, and state-of-the-art infrastructure have made them the most sought-after hospital for diabetic foot ulcer surgery and post-operative treatment.
Practices to Prevent Diabetic Foot Ulcers
Preventing foot ulcers involves adopting essential practices for individuals with diabetes. Regular foot inspections, proper hygiene, comfortable footwear choices, and diligent blood sugar control are key measures to safeguard against these potentially serious complications. One should follow the following preventions when having a foot ulcer. This includes
- Check your feet every day for cuts, blisters, or sores.
- Wash your feet with warm water and mild soap daily, and dry them thoroughly, especially between the toes.
- Keep your skin moisturized to prevent dryness.
- Wear well-fitting shoes and socks.
- Trim your toenails straight across and file the edges.
- Avoid going barefoot.
- Quit smoking to promote overall foot health.
Conclusion
To sum it up, diabetic foot ulcers are a common complication of diabetes that can affect your feet down to the bones. They are formed due to skin tissue breaking down and exposing the layers underneath. Symptoms include drainage from your foot, unusual swelling, irritation, redness, and odors from one or both feet. Good foot care can help prevent diabetic foot ulcers. Treatment options for diabetic foot ulcers include antibiotics, wound care, debridement, hyperbaric oxygen therapy