Diabetes can take a toll on your overall health, including
the health of your skin and feet. When you have diabetes,
blood glucose, a form of sugar, builds up in the bloodstream.
Over time, high blood glucose can cause long-term health
problems like neuropathy, also called nerve damage, and poor
circulation; both directly affecting the health of your
skin and feet. Your nerves allow you to move and feel. Damage to
your nerves may cause: tingling, pain, burning, numbness, reduced
sweating, reduced feeling, and muscle weakness in your feet and
legs. Over time, this muscle weakness makes you walk
differently which can cause the shape of your foot to change,
and eventually cause damage like calluses, bunions and
hammertoes. Poor circulation means the blood flow to your
legs and feet is reduced, most likely because of plaque
build-up inside your vessels. Poor circulation can cause pain,
cramping, and less hair growth. Your legs and feet can also look
bluish. If you get a cut or sore, poor circulation can slow
healing. Together, neuropathy and poor circulation increase
the chances that a small injury like a cut, sore or blister will
become a serious health problem. Neuropathy may cause your skin
to dry and crack. Poor circulation slows healing
increasing your risk of infection. You may not notice
even a small wound, and, if it is not treated properly, it can
lead to gangrene and eventually, amputation of a toe, foot or
leg. But there is good news. By keeping your blood glucose in a
healthy range, you can prevent or delay neuropathy and poor
circulation and as a result, prevent skin and foot problems.
You can reach healthy blood glucose control by making
healthy food choices, getting physical activity, checking your
blood glucose on a regular basis, and taking medications,
if necessary. Work with your diabetes care team to reach your
blood glucose goals in order to protect your skin and feet.
Although Diabetes is complex, it's manageable when you have
the right information and support. Diabetes Care and
Education Specialists are trained to be your diabetes
expert and can help you learn how to successfully thrive with
diabetes. You deserve nothing less! Ask your provider for a
referral today! Find one at www.DiabetesEducator.org/find