Diabetes symptoms and foot care

This means diabetics can take longer to heal, and puts them at increased risk of getting foot ulcers and an infection from even a minor cut. So diabetics need to take extra care of their feet, with the help of some of these tips:

Check your feet every day - The diabetes symptom of poor circulation means reduced sensation, which in turns means you won't know if something is wrong without checking for it visually.

Don't self medicate - If you have a foot problem, such as corns, calluses or verrucas, then go and see your GP. Don't try treating it yourself by applying removal creams or gels because they can risk causing further damage if too much is applied or over too wide an area.

Moisturise - You can use moisturisers and foot cream for treating dry flaky skin and to prevent the skin cracking. These shouldn't be used between the toes, however.

Protect your feet - Avoid walking around barefoot (even in your own home) and always wear socks with shoes to avoid skin chaffing. You should also give your shoes a good shake to check there aren't any small stones in them before putting them on.

Avoid excessive heat - If you have little feeling in your feet you should avoid putting them in harm's way. This includes checking the bath temperature with your hand before stepping in, not leaving your feet close to a fire or covering them with a hot water bottle.

Useful links

http://www.diabetes.org.uk/

http://www.diabetes.org.uk/Get_involved/Diabetes-Week/Diabetes-myths/

http://www.patient.co.uk/health/Diabetes-Foot-Care-A-Summary.htm