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Diabetics are at high risk from various health conditions which include: Heart Disease Cerebrovascular events Eye Disease - Possible Loss of sight Nerve Damage - Neuropathy Amputation of foot or leg Kidney Troubles Gum Disease Loss of teeth A further health issue with diabetes involves the feet, as Diabetes was one among the significant triggers for lower limb amputation in the year 2004. Amputation is not surprisingly the last resort with regards to complications of the feet, but it is astonishing how a small cut or abrasion can lead to such significant outcomes in diabetic sufferers. Why is the Foot at Risk? Persistent high blood glucose levels can eventually damage the body's nerves, causing a loss of sensation (neuropathy). Nerve damage can also cause pain in the legs, arms and hands creating problems in people's everyday lives. Your GP or Podiatrist should check your feet on a yearly basis, which should include a sensory exam to check for loss of feeling. Small cuts or abrasions on the neuropathic foot can go unnoticed if daily foot checks are not performed. The cut can easily become infected, which in turn leads to an infected ulceration and could eventually result in the loss of the lower limb. Therefore the importance of daily foot checks, foot care & Diabetes in general cannot be underestimated. High Risk Factors Leading to Diabetic Foot Ulcers A small percentage of diabetic patients develop foot ulcerations, some of which may lead on to amputation. The foot is at a higher risk of ulceration if the individual suffers from conditions such as vascular disease or neuropathy. However there are many other factors that can increase risk of ulcers such as: - Cold feet or absent foot pulses History of Foot Problems Foot Deformities Limited mobility Poor circulation Inappropriate shoes Uncontrolled blood sugar levels A painless abrasion or corn can steadily progress to a distressing foot ulcer, and if left untreated skin deterioration may occur. To find out more about the diabetes mellitus diet, and for precise details about the american diabetic diet, click on the link.
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diabetes, diabetic, health, healthy, feet, foot health,
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