Diabetic foot ulcers are caused by complications of diabetes on the nerves and / or blood vessels:
- Nerve damage. Nerve damage due to diabetes causes loss of sensation in the feet. This condition is known as peripheral neuropathy. The nerves that normally carry sensations of pain to the brain of the foot is not functioning properly. Diabetics can suffer injuries due to stepped on something, wearing tight shoes, or tripping without realizing it until days or weeks. Loss of sensation also cause a reduction mechanism of protection against foot. A healthy person would realize if too much pressure on the foot and automatically adjusts the position. Not so when the nerves have been damaged. Consequently, in addition to causing injury, foot deformities can undergo (change shape), for example, thickening of the skin on the sole or heel portion.
- Vascular disease. Diabetes can lead to narrowing of the arteries (peripheral arterial occlusion) or rupture of small blood vessels (microangiopathy). Narrowing or damage to blood vessels reduces blood flow to the legs, causing ulcers on dead tissue due to lack of nutrition. Poor blood circulation also causes the body's defense against bacterial infection disturbed. Wounds are difficult to cure and even more widespread.
- Check your feet regularly every day, especially on the soles of the feet and the space between the fingers. Ask your friends to help, if you have vision problems that can not check their own feet. Notice if there is a torn skin, bruises, rashes, blisters, or calluses. Consult a doctor immediately if you find any problems in the feet that do not heal within a few days.
- Wash your feet every day with mild soap. Soak feet with a temperature of 37 ° to 38 ° C for three to five minutes, then wash with mild soap. Diabetics with neuropathy are often less sensitive to temperature. Use a thermometer to make sure the water temperature is not too high.
- Cut the nails on your toes with caution. Enlist the help of a friend if you can not afford to cut your own nails.
- Spread legs with moisturizing cream to prevent cracking, especially in spaces between the toes.
- Use the footwear. Do not walk barefoot. Use sandals or shoes that are not too loose or tight, with good cushioning. If you have experienced a foot deformity, use a shoe that has been adapted to your feet. The doctor may recommend a specially designed shoes (orthopedic shoes) conform to the shape of your foot.
- Choose socks with a high cotton content that absorb sweat and not easily irritate.
- Schedule a visit to the doctor. Patients with diabetes should see a doctor at least once a year. The doctor will examine your feet to see the early signs of neurological disorders or blood circulation and other foot problems.