A recent estimate by the World Health Organization indicates that over 375 million people have been diagnosed with diabetes worldwide. In another ten or fifteen years, that number is expected to explode, with diabetes becoming the sixth leading cause of severe disability and even death.
Since one of the major symptoms of diabetes is a reduction of feeling in the feet due to nerve damage, people can be unaware that a wound or other injury has even occurred. Since the immune response in people with diabetes is so slow, infection can rapidly set in. Daily foot inspections are essential for noticing any problems before they progress to an infection and possible need for amputation.
Some of the many things to be looking out for when you inspect your feet include the following:
Blisters, sores, cuts, and bruises may take longer to heal and may require aggressive treatment to prevent any infections.
Itchy, cracking, peeling, or wrinkled skin is more common in people who have diabetes.
Infections can cause dark streaks, warming, swelling, and pain. You may notice pus and blood at the site.
The color of your skin may become more pink, pale, dark or red. Black or blue skin may be a sign of a serious injury or infection.
Changes in the shape or appearance of your toes, feet, and ankles.
If you have been diagnosed with diabetes, you should make a habit of seeing your foot doctor to catch problems before they worsen. Contact the foot doctors at Foot and Ankle Center of Fort Lee, LLC. Our team of board certified podiatrists includes Greg Khaimov, DPM, FACFAS, Daniel Pollack, DPM, FACFAS, Walter Majdanski, DPM, AACFAS, Yakov Haimof, DPM, Mathew Yagudayev, DPM, AACFAS, and Kevin Jeong, DPM. The center offers convenient locations in Fort Lee NJ, Ringwood NJ, Brooklyn NY, and Forest Hills NY. Contact us at (201) 363-9844 and schedule an appointment today!
