Diabetic foot ulcer symptoms range from simply uncomfortable to downright dangerous if not treated appropriately.
So if you or someone you know has diabetic foot infection symptoms, then continue reading. We’ll talk about the different potential causes of foot ulcers and how to take care of them.
What Causes Diabetic Foot Ulcers?
Let’s explore the causes, signs, and symptoms of diabetic foot ulcers:
High Blood Sugar
Diabetes causes increased levels of glucose in your blood. This metabolic disease elevates these glucose levels, which thereby stiffens the arteries in your body. It also narrows your blood vessels.
This restricts blood and oxygen flow that your body needs to heal itself naturally. This is one of the common causes of foot ulcers.
Nerve Damage
If your blood sugar levels aren’t controlled, they can create nerve damage. Diabetic neuropathies are a type of nerve disease that creates numbness. Even a blister, small cut, or surgical wound could be unnoticed.
Therefore it can be infected and become worse over time. Many diabetic people with foot ulcers don’t catch them in time.
Bad Circulation
Peripheral arterial disease (PAD) is an increased risk factor for those suffering from diabetes. It results in less blood flow in your legs and feet.
If you have chronic wounds like foot ulcers, then it can keep you from healing quickly. It could even lead to amputation and other life-changing consequences.
Further Reading: Preventing Foot Pain
Diabetic Foot Prevention
Since those with diabetes have weaker immune systems on average, infections are easier to catch. Diabetic foot infection symptoms include ulcers. This infection can develop into an open wound, which is painful and can be chronic.
Problems With Immune Systems
If you have a slower immune system, then white blood cells won’t be sent as quickly to fight the bacteria from a foot ulcer. Therefore the damaged dead tissue won’t be cleared away and ulcers can become prominent.
How To Deal With Diabetic Foot Ulcers
Here are some approaches for curing your feet ulcers from diabetes:
See A Specialist
A foot doctor can help you diagnose your condition and provide the best treatment, therapy, and other solutions.
That way you get prevention of diabetic foot care and don’t have to wonder or take any guesses. Inspect your feet for red spots, calluses, swelling, and more. If you notice anything unsightly, contact your podiatrist.
Keep Your Diabetes In Check
Maintain proper blood pressure and develop a diabetes management plan. This can include exercise, diet, sugar monitoring, and cutting out smoking.
Keep Your Feet Clean And Dry
Moisture can create bacterial growth. You should air your feet out throughout the day to prevent ulcers from having an environment in which to thrive.
Get Treatment For Your Diabetic Foot Ulcer Today
Contact The Advanced Foot and Ankle Institute of Georgia to get in touch with a qualified podiatrist in Marietta. If you schedule an appointment, our expert specialists will treat your foot condition with compassion and expertise.
We have extensive experience in preventing foot ulcers in patients with diabetes. You deserve to feel comfortable and look great from head to toe. So don’t hesitate to reach out today for more information on solving your foot ulcer discomfort.
