It's not high blood sugar, heart disease, or stroke that most often
puts people with diabetes in the hospital. It's their feet.
Foot wounds are the most common diabetes-related cause for hospitalization.
Foot wounds in a person with diabetes can also lead to amputation.
Fortunately, people with this disease often can prevent these serious wounds
with daily foot exams.
Here's what you can do to help prevent foot problems:
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Take care of your diabetes. Work with your healthcare team to keep your blood glucose in your target range.
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Look over your feet daily. Check for sores, cuts, bruises, and toenail changes. Use a mirror to look
at the bottom of your feet if you need to. Call or see your healthcare
provider if you have cuts or breaks in the skin, have an ingrown nail
or if your foot changes color, shape, or becomes less sensitive. See your
healthcare provider immediately if you detect a new sore or if your foot
becomes swollen, red, or painful. Be on the lookout for changes in your
feet such as the development of "hammertoes." These may need
surgical evaluation and treatment.
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Wash your feet daily. Use a mild soap and lukewarm water, and dry your feet very carefully, especially
between the toes. If the skin is dry, use a moisturizer—but not
between the toes since excess moisture there can promote fungal infections.
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Wear shoes and socks at all times. Never walk barefoot, even in your home. Wear comfortable shoes that fit
well and protect your feet. Check inside your shoes before wearing them
to make sure the lining is smooth, and there are no objects inside. If
your healthcare provider tells you you’re at high risk for foot
problems, he or she may recommend a specific shoe type. Wear soft, thick
socks with no seams. Seams can rub and cause blisters.
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Exercise. Walking improves circulation and can help control your weight. Be certain
to wear properly fitted walking shoes.
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Never try to remove corns, calluses, or warts by yourself. Over-the-counter products can burn or damage your skin. Sometimes this
damage cannot be repaired.
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Don’t smoke. Smoking can cause decreased blood flow to the feet and make wounds heal
slowly. Many smokers with diabetes need amputations.
Finally, take your shoes and socks off and ask your healthcare provider
to check your feet every time you go for a visit. The potential for foot
problems leading to major health issues is significant. An annual foot
exam is recommended for all people with diabetes or more often if you
have problems. During this exam, your healthcare provider will identify
risk factors that can predict ulcers and amputations. Some risk factors
are loss of feeling in your foot, foot deformities, and circulation problems.
The exam can be done either by your primary care healthcare provider or
by a podiatrist, a healthcare provider who specializes in foot care.