Diabetics learn about complications early in the course of their disease. Their doctors let them know the importance of weight control, blood sugar levels, eye exams, and other precautions. They are also told that they should care for their feet, but many still develop foot problems as part of Diabetes Complications in Sayville, NY. However, are a number of ways to control this problem, including:
* PODIATRIST VISITS: Diabetics should visit a medical provider, such as Sayville Foot Care, each year. During annual checkups, a podiatrist will examine patients’ feet, and search for signs of infection, nerve damage, ankle problems, heel pain, and more. Often patients with foot-related Diabetes Complications in Sayville, NY can order specially-designed shoes from their podiatrist. These are designed to provide needed support, and keep feet as comfortable and healthy as possible. In addition, diabetics can have other problems, such as warts, and callouses, safely treated.
* A FOOT CARE KIT: In addition to using the services of a first-rate podiatrist to spot Diabetes Complications in Sayville, NY, patients should use a foot care kit. These should include a foot cream designed to moisturize especially dry areas. Since diabetics are prone to infections, they may also want to keep anti-fungal creams on hand to ward off bacteria and fungal infections. A pumice stone should be included, and used gently. The kit should include oral or topical nail treatments for nail fungus problems. If these are serious, they should be seen by a podiatrist. Patients also need to add diabetic socks, which are designed to wick moisture away from skin.
* AWARENESS: Diabetics should clearly understand the warning signs of foot problems, because they can become very serious, very quickly. In fact foot-related Diabetes Complications in Sayville, NY are some of the most common reasons that patients visit local emergency rooms. Diabetics should watch their feet carefully after they stub their toes, since they can cause problems if they do not heal well. Small infections can flare up, due to cuts, or even dry skin. They should be treated quickly, since untreated foot ulcers may require surgery and even amputations.
Diabetes can cause even minor foot problems to quickly become major health issues. That is why patients with the disease need to visit a podiatrist annually, carefully examine their own feet, watch foot injuries to make sure they are healing, and create a good foot care kit.
