Hello my name is Rose Kruse and today I will be
informing you about diabetes complications and
how to prevent them. I will be specifically
discussing what can happen to your feet and limbs
if this disease is not properly monitored and taken
care of.
One major risk in not taking care of your feet and
limbs can lead to an amputation. According to
medicine.net an amputation is the removal of part
or all of a body part enclosed by skin. Amputations
due to diabetes can cause unnecessary loss of life
and permanent disability. “More than 1 million
people in the world lose a limb to diabetes
complications each year. That equates to one
amputation every 30 seconds” says
diabetesmonitor.com
Two main reasons for amputation are reduced
blood flow and nerve damage. Diabetes has an
effect on the blood vessels in the body. The blood
vessels are the part of the circulatory system that
transports blood.
Diabetes damages the large arteries that supply
blood to the heart and other parts of the body. It
also affects the small vessels and tiny capillaries
that deliver oxygen and nutrients to tissues
throughout the body. Without proper circulation,
the blood vessels narrow and harden in the leg
and feet.
With less blood flow to the tissues in the feet and
legs, it is more difficult for the body to heal from
cuts sores or burns. If the cut or any sores are not
detected or properly treated, it can turn into a
major problem and possibly result in an
amputation.
Another problem affecting the body that might
result in an amputation is neuropathy. This is a
condition involving the nerves in the body.
Neuropathy lessens a person’s ability to feel pain
heat and cold in their feet. As a result a person
might not be able to feel if they have a cut, sore or
if they are burning themselves. Left untreated the
cut or sore could become infected and further
lead to amputation as well.
Now that I have discussed what conditions lead to
an amputation I will further explain how to
possibly prevent this life changing procedure. Here
are some steps to take as provided by
Mayoclinic.com
1. Wash and inspect your feet and legs daily. Make
sure to wash with warm water and inspect them
for any cuts, sores, redness or swelling.
2. Never walk bearfoot and always wear clean dry
socks. Wear socks that wick moisture away from
skin such as cotton. Remember to wear shoes that
are comfortable and properly fit your own foot.
There are even shoes and socks available that are
especially made for people with diabetes.
3. Don’t smoke. Smoking reduces blood flow to
your feet
4. Take injuries seriously and schedule regular
checkups with your doctor.
If it does come down to the worst and you are
forced to get an amputation, just know that you
are never alone. Doctors and medical specialists
are there to help you out during this time. For
further help and to find local support groups in
your area visit the website
http://www.americanamputee.org/sopportgroups.html.
Picture sources
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