Diabetes is a serious disease and can have many repercussions in life. If you have been recently diagnosed, you certainly want to keep a closer eye on your feet, as this can be one of the big problem areas for an unfortunate sufferer. What types of issue can arise, how can you be aware of the problem, and what should you do?

Effects of Diabetes

Because diabetes can markedly affect the amount of glucose in your bloodstream, serious complications can arise. These can affect both the nerves and the blood flow in the lower legs and feet, with profound results.

Nerve Damage

As the nerves begin to die in your peripherals, you may not be able to feel any problems as they arise. You may not detect any pain, and if you were to step on a nail, you might not be aware of it and the wound could become infected. Over time this could develop and turn into an ulcer. In the worst-case scenario, the foot could become so infected that it may even need to be amputated.

Other issues can arise, as well. If you do not look after your feet properly, then they could dry out and the skin could crack. Blisters could form if your shoes have a poor fit and these are, once again, prone to infection.

Vascular Disease

You are also at risk of developing peripheral vascular issues. This means that less blood is flowing to your feet and toes and you'll be less likely to recover from any potential injury in this area. Again, ulcers could develop or tissue could die off leading to gangrene.

Regular Care

You need to inspect your feet on a regular basis, ideally every day. Wash them with mild soap but be careful to ensure that the water is not too hot, as you may not be able to sense it so easily. Moisturise your feet so that the skin does not become too dry and try to remove any corns with a pumice stone. Always wear shoes that fit properly and that give you good balance across your base.

Working with a Podiatrist

Of course, it can be very difficult to look after this issue by yourself, but expert care is at hand. If you make a regular appointment with your podiatrist they will help you to look after your feet, take care of problems as they arise and provide you with good advice at all times.

For more information, contact a diabetic podiatry care service.