Diabetes is a complex disease that can lead to a multitude of complications due to high and uncontrolled blood sugar levels. One of the most serious complications is diabetic foot ulcers.
Diabetic foot ulcers are open sores or wounds that occur on the feet. The primary cause is nerve damage or poor blood circulation caused by diabetes, according to the health website Medical News Today.
Not everyone with diabetes develops foot ulcers. (IMAGE: PEXELS).
The condition often begins when the skin tissue on the foot is torn, exposing the underlying layers of skin. This usually occurs in areas of high pressure on the foot, such as the big toe or heel. Symptoms of diabetic foot ulcers include swelling, blisters, drainage, and even turning black due to necrosis.
Not everyone with diabetes develops foot ulcers. In addition to diabetes, factors that increase the risk of ulcer formation include wearing ill-fitting shoes, poor foot hygiene, nail problems, obesity, and smoking.
Specifically, wearing shoes that are too loose or too tight increases pressure and friction on the skin of the foot, making it easier for the skin to tear and form ulcers. Not washing feet regularly or not drying them properly after washing can lead to skin damage, resulting in tears.
Furthermore, improper toenail trimming can damage the skin of the foot. Even minor injuries can develop into ulcers.
Finally, smoking and obesity are factors that affect blood circulation. Blood flow to the feet decreases, slowing the healing process of foot tears and increasing the risk of ulcers.
To prevent and treat foot ulcers, the first thing diabetes patients should do is control blood sugar levels through healthy eating, regular exercise, and taking medications as prescribed by their doctor if necessary. Additionally, they need to choose appropriate footwear, and may even use insoles to reduce friction on the feet.
Patients should also avoid standing or walking for long periods. These pressures on the feet can easily lead to ulcers or make existing ulcers difficult to heal. For infected ulcers, patients need to go to the hospital to remove dead tissue, dress the wounds, and may be prescribed antibiotics, according to Medical News Today.
