A simple toe bump can cause more than just a few days of pain, but a serious problem that can threaten your ability to walk and even your life. This is not alarmist, but a reality that every diabetic person may face – diabetic foot. As one of the complications of diabetes, the appearance of diabetic foot is often due to long-term high blood sugar damage to the blood vessels and nerves of the foot, so that a small wound or wear and tear may develop into an ulcer that is difficult to heal, or even more serious consequences.
According to the latest medical research, the probability of diabetic patients developing diabetic foot is as high as 25%. This means that one out of every four people with diabetes may suffer from diabetic foot. More seriously, diabetic foot not only affects quality of life, but is also one of the main causes of amputation in diabetic patients.
Diabetic foot, the term "diabetic foot", hides a complex set of physiological changes that work together to cause a significant deterioration in foot health. Understanding its causes is the first step to prevention. The following content is based on medical principles and delves into the internal mechanism of diabetic foot development.
Abnormal glucose metabolism: a double blow to blood vessels and nerves
Long-term abnormal glucose metabolism leads to a continuous increase in blood glucose levels, which not only affects the balance of glucose metabolism in the body, but more importantly, the damage of high blood sugar to blood vessels and nervous system is gradual and far-reaching. First of all, in the condition of high blood sugar, the small blood vessels in the body are damaged, and the blood circulation is slowed down, so that the foot tissues do not get enough oxygen and nutrients. Secondly, the nervous system is also damaged due to high blood sugar, resulting in decreased sensation in the feet, and patients often cannot perceive the injury and infection of the feet in time, making it possible for small wounds to develop into severe ulcers.
A vicious cycle of foot infections
Abnormal glucose metabolism can also affect the normal function of the immune system and reduce the body's resistance to infection. Once there is a small wound or wear on the foot, it is more difficult for the body of a diabetic patient to respond effectively to the infection, resulting in a slow wound healing process and the formation of chronic ulcers. In addition, poor circulation further restricts the arrival of infection-fighting white blood cells and essential nutrients, further complicating the process.
The key to prevention: early identification and management
With the causes of diabetic foot understood, it is clear that prevention strategies should focus on two main areas: first, to slow or block the damage to blood vessels and nerves caused by hyperglycemia through glycemic control; The second is to strengthen the daily care of the feet, including regular check-ups, proper foot care habits, and wearing appropriate footwear and socks to reduce the risk of foot injuries. At the same time, for any foot abnormality, such as minor scratches or abrasions, sufficient attention should be paid to take appropriate treatment measures in time to prevent the condition from deteriorating.
Blood sugar stability: the cornerstone of health
Blood sugar control is the first step in preventing diabetic foot. Maintaining blood sugar stability not only reduces the risk of nerve and blood vessel damage, but is also effective in preventing diabetes-related complications. It is recommended to adopt a balanced diet, eat regularly and quantitatively, avoid high-sugar foods, and increase dietary fiber intake. At the same time, moderate physical activity, such as brisk walking or swimming, can promote blood sugar stability, and at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week is recommended.
Foot care: a daily compulsory
Foot care is the key to diabetic foot prevention. Check your feet daily to look for abnormalities such as scratches, tears, erythema, or swelling. Wash your feet with warm water and dry them thoroughly, especially between your toes. Keep your feet** soft and use an alcohol-free moisturizer to avoid dryness. Choose suitable shoes and socks to ensure that the shoes do not wear the feet, and the socks are soft and comfortable, without gaps, to avoid pressure on the feet.
Regular check-ups: professional eyes
Have a professional foot exam at least once a year, including an assessment of nerve function and blood flow status. These tests help to detect problems early and intervene in time. If there is any pain, numbness, tingling, or changes in the shape of the feet, a doctor should be consulted immediately.
Early recognition of diabetic foot and prompt medical attention are essential to prevent serious complications. A long-term hyperglycemic state caused by abnormal glucose metabolism can gradually damage the nerves and blood vessels in the feet, reduce sensation in the feet and reduce blood circulationThis increases the risk of infection and ulcers. Understanding and recognizing the early signs of diabetic foot is a critical step in stopping its progression.
Decreased or abnormal sensation
People with diabetes may experience decreased sensation in their feet, such as numbness, tingling, or burning. This is caused by high blood sugar damaging nerves, which is known as "peripheral neuropathy" by the medical community. Early recognition of these altered sensations is essential to prevent diabetic foot.
Changes in foot morphology
Long-term abnormalities in glucose metabolism can affect the morphology of the foot, leading to changes in the arch of the foot or structural abnormalities of the phalanges. These changes can lead to abnormal pressure distributions, increasing the risk of ulcer development.
Variations
Color changes, dryness, cracks, or the appearance of ulcers on the feet are all warning signs of diabetic foot. Poor circulation and nerve damage can lead to these ** problems, and they can be a precursor to more serious problems.
Chronic wounds or ulcers
Due to decreased sensation and poor circulation, people with diabetes may not be able to detect small wounds or abrasions on their feet, which may develop into ulcers that are difficult to heal.
The importance of seeking timely medical attention
When any of these symptoms are recognized, it is important to seek medical attention promptly. Incipient diabetic foot can be managed with medications, proper foot care, and possible lifestyle modifications. In some cases, physical** or more specialized medical intervention may be required to prevent the condition from getting worse.