Diabetic skin ulcers are among the most common complications associated with diabetes. They occur so frequently in those who have the disease because they experience a slow or delayed healing process when they get minor cuts or scrapes. This is attributed to a decreased blood flow. Because the healing process takes so much longer for a diabetic, infection has more time to set in.
Diabetic skin ulcers are also a common occurrence because people who have the condition experience numbness in the feet and legs, so they may not be aware right away if they obtain a scrape or skin irritation. The following occurrences commonly lead to foot ulcers: animal or insect bites, burns, blisters and scratches, calluses or corns, shoes that rub against the feet and stepping on a sharp object. A diabetic’s home should always be picked up and free of obstacles that could put their feet in danger. An ulcer can appear in as little as a few hours, so inspecting the feet at least once a day is imperative for preventing diabetic skin ulcers.
People with diabetes may want to play it safe when it comes to nail salons. Because fungus and other infections can be spread at a public place, it may be best to avoid them all together, but if a diabetic does choose to go to one, they should make sure the employees sanitize their tools properly. Certification at the salon should be on display in a visible spot.
Applying lotion is an essential habit one must develop when it comes to diabetic skin ulcers. Keeping feet moisturized will help to keep them from drying and cracking. Any moisturizer will work, but unscented varieties are recommended because they are milder on the skin and are less likely to cause irritation. Aveeno makes a good unscented lotion that provides 24-hour moisture.
When Diabetic Skin Ulcers Occur, You Must Act Immediately
It is important for a person to realize the urgency when it comes to treating diabetic skin ulcers. Although ulcers occur most often on the feet, they can present themselves on other parts of the body as well. Regardless of where diabetic skin ulcers are on the body, they should always be taken very seriously. If not treated promptly and correctly, infection can set in. Gangrene may also result, after which amputation may be necessary. Many people who have to go through an amputation do not survive after the procedure. Diabetic skin ulcers are life threatening and should be treated accordingly.
If a person develops a diabetic skin ulcer, medical attention should be obtained immediately so that the patient can start taking antibiotics that will help to fight against infection. If a diabetic skin ulcer progresses to a dangerous stage, surgery may be necessary to remove it. Sometimes this becomes the only solution to prevent amputation.
