When Type 2 Diabetes then becomes a part of your life, there are important changes that occur. One of the most common, not to mention severe, problems that occur is neuropathy. The nerves of the feet are at high risk of being affected by this condition of high blood sugar. Neuropathy occurs when blood vessels experience severe pressure, therefore cutting off the blood supply to longer limbs, like your legs and feet. It’s important that you check your legs and feet for any cuts, sores, infections, bumps and bruises. A mirror should be used to check any areas that are hard to see.
Type 2 Diabetes can cause many different types of foot problems. Fungal infection of the nails is apparent when the nails become discolored. They can appear to be a dark, yellowish-brown or dull. Sometimes the nails become very brittle and can crumble away from the nail bed. The conditions of your nails can be worsened by the moist, dark environment of shoes thus promoting further fungal growth. Blisters occur as a reslt of shoes rubbing and irritating the same area on your feet. Blisters are much worse when you have diabetes. There is a chance that these could become awful sores if left untreated by your doctor. This is the reason it’s important to examine your feet daily if possible.
Minor scrapes and cuts can occur from foot injuries or poor shoes. These minor injuries can become foot ulcers. Foot ulcers are at very high risk for infection with diabetics. Neuropathy can hinder your ability to feel any small injury on your foot. You may not be able to tell there is a problem until it is too late. It’s best to check your feet regularly, and treat any cuts or scrapes on your feet immediately. Prevention is the key; by taking care of a problem like this before it gets worse is the best way to save your feet and health.
Other foot problems that can happen with Type 2 diabetes are calluses, corns, athlete’s foot and dry skin. While most of these are normal common foot problems, having any form of diabetes can make these conditions many times worse. Any foot problems need to be addressed right away. Treat cuts, sores and scrapes with medication or proper cleaning habits. Never let any injury or cut etc., irrespective of how little, go without medical treatment by your doctor. Untreated foot injuries raise the likelihood for serious infections. Sometimes infections can become so terrible, gangrene sets in and your foot can begin to rot. At this point, doctors are forced to begin removing rotted limbs with use of surgery. By correctly caring for yourself, especially if one has Type 2 Diabetes, you can quite readily keep from getting any injury from getting this severe.
