healthcare PSA: diabetic neuropathy & foot care
in nursing school i had a patient who stubbed his toe
stubbing your toe usually isn't all that serious
but he was diabetic and eventually his foot had to be amputated.
i sat with his wife and held her as she cried -- she didn't understand how this could have happened. they didn't know it was that serious
another true life scenario: man wakes up from a nap and freaks out because there's blood on the bed and all over his dog. turns out the dog had chewed off his toes and he didn't feel it
over time, high blood sugar due to diabetes can cause nerve damage so that you might not feel sensations like pain. many organs can be affected (kidneys, heart etc) but it's especially common to have neuropathy in the feet and legs. you might get a sore or blister on your foot, and not know it's there. poor blood flow lends to poor healing, making the wounds prone to infection, gangrene, and necrosis
it's incredibly important to pay extra attention to the feet if you or someone you know is diabetic.
below are some good tips from the
NIDDK. their website is a great resource
What can I do to take care of my feet?
Look at your feet every day to check for problems.
Wash your feet in warm water every day. Make sure the water is not too hot by testing the temperature with your elbow. Do not soak your feet. Dry your feet well, especially between your toes.
Look at your feet every day to check for cuts, sores, blisters, redness, calluses, or other problems. Checking every day is even more important if you have nerve damage or poor blood flow. If you cannot bend over or pull your feet up to check them, use a mirror. If you cannot see well, ask someone else to check your feet.
If your skin is dry, rub lotion on your feet after you wash and dry them. Do not put lotion between your toes.
File corns and calluses gently with an emery board or pumice stone. Do this after your bath or shower.
Cut your toenails once a week or when needed. Cut toenails when they are soft from washing. Cut them to the shape of the toe and not too short. File the edges with an emery board.
Always wear slippers or shoes to protect your feet from injuries.
Always wear slippers or shoes to protect your feet.
Always wear socks or stockings to avoid blisters. Do not wear socks or knee-high stockings that are too tight below your knee.
Wear shoes that fit well. Shop for shoes at the end of the day when your feet are bigger. Break in shoes slowly. Wear them 1 to 2 hours each day for the first few weeks.
Before putting your shoes on, feel the insides to make sure they have no sharp edges or objects that might injure your feet.
be healthy and well!
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