There are many complications that can occur when a person with diabetes is not able to control the condition efficiently. One such complication is diabetes and foot problems. Diabetes related foot problems occur when the body starts to suffer from a condition known as neuropathy.
Neuropathy affects the circulation to the limbs and extremities of the body. It also affects the nervous system. When this occurs, the feet become particularly vulnerable. Diabetes and foot problems can lead to amputation if it is not treated quickly and effectively.
In order to better understand diabetic neuropathy, it is important to understand diabetes mellitus. Diabetes mellitus is a metabolic condition that occurs when the insulin hormone is not produced or used properly. The insulin hormone is produced by the pancreas. It is used by the fat and muscle cells in the body to absorb and metabolize blood sugar properly. When the pancreas is not able to produce enough insulin, type I diabetes mellitus (insulin dependent or juvenile onset) is diagnosed. When the cells in the body become resistant to the insulin hormone, type II diabetes mellitus (insulin resistant or adult onset) is diagnosed.
Regardless of the type of diabetes mellitus, if it is not treated and controlled properly the complications can be severe. One of the most common complications is foot problems associated with diabetes.
Diabetes Foot Problems Symptoms
Based on information obtained from the American Diabetes Association, symptoms related to diabetes and foot problems can include numbness, tingling, cold feet, discoloration in the feet or toes, and difficulty walking. Other symptoms can include fluid retention, edema, and even high blood pressure.
If you are having difficulty controlling your blood sugar and you are noticing any of these other symptoms, you need to contact your physician immediately. It is probably necessary to adjust your treatment plan. It is important to seek assistance immediately. If diabetes foot problems go untreated, it can lead to amputation.
Treatment For Diabetes Related Foot Problems
If you are experiencing foot problems related to diabetes, chances are your diabetes is not being controlled well. Your doctor will take a close look at your current diabetes treatment plan and make changes to control your diabetes more effectively. These changes can include diet, exercise, oral medication, or insulin. It may also be necessary to start treating the foot related complications immediately. You may need to see a podiatrist or physician who specializes in diabetes related foot problems.
If you have been diagnosed with diabetes, the best way to treat the complications is to avoid them. Diabetes and foot problems can be avoided if the condition is controlled well!
