Diabetic Foot Sores
If you've received a diagnosis of diabetes or have been living with it for some time, you're surely aware that chronic wounds are a severe condition that you should be aware of at all times. But what are foot ulcers, and why are they an issue for diabetics in particular? The following are six facts concerning diabetic foot ulcers that you should be aware of.
If you or someone you know has diabetes, it's critical to be aware of the hazards of foot ulcers. You should be aware of the following:
An open wound on the foot is known as a foot ulcer. They can be harmful because a person with diabetes who has had it for a long time may lose feeling in their feet and thus be unaware of a cut until it becomes infected.
Diabetes can cause foot ulcers in as many as 25% of persons. This is why it is standard practice for doctors to examine a diabetic's foot every time they visit.
A foot ulcer might begin as a little, apparently innocuous lesion, such as a wound from walking on something sharp or even dry skin.
A foot ulcer, if left untreated, can lead to infection and, in the worst-case scenario, amputation.
A foot ulcer is a sign of peripheral artery disease (PAD), a circulatory issue in which the limbs do not receive adequate blood. A wound's healing might be hampered by a lack of blood flow. Other signs of PAD include blue toes, feet, or legs; non-growing toe nails; leg discomfort; and a lack of leg hair.
If you're overweight or smoke, you're more likely to get diabetic foot ulcers. If you have diabetes, you should check your feet frequently for indications of a wound, and if you suspect you have a diabetic foot ulcer, call your doctor right once. It is critical to get treatment as soon as possible in order to avoid infection and other, potentially more serious complications.
We are just a call or click away. To learn more, book an appointment online or over the phone with PeachState Advanced Cardiac & Endovascular. We have several locations in Georgia: Newnan, Atlanta, & Griffin.