Diabetes prevalence in India has elevated steadily since 1990, notably surging after 2000 whereas the 2023 ICMR INDIA B research by the Indian Council of Medical Research signifies that round 101 million folks in India have diabetes. India ranks second globally within the diabetes epidemic, projected to rise to 27.5 million amongst these aged over 65 by 2045 as alarmingly, round 57% of diabetic circumstances go undiagnosed, totaling roughly 43.9 million.
Diabetes-related foot issues pose a big morbidity threat attributable to social and financial elements. Additionally, delays in accessing healthcare exacerbate the problem, with many sufferers consulting casual suppliers initially.
Understanding Diabetes-Related Foot Ulcers
In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Rajeev Premnath, General Laparoscopic Surgeon and Endoscopist, Minimally Invasive Proctology Department at Ramakrishna Hospital in Bengaluru, shared, “Foot ulcers are chronic open wounds that persistently resist healing or reappear over an extended period. These wounds arise from the breakdown of skin and tissues in the feet and ankles, often leading to infections. Foot ulcers can result from factors like high blood sugar, poor circulation, neuropathy and foot abnormalities.”
He cautioned, “Diabetes increases risk due to associated complications. Untreated ulcers can lead to severe complications like infections, abscesses and gangrene, often requiring amputation. Conditions like atherosclerosis and Raynaud’s phenomenon also elevate risks. Rarely, ulcers may warrant assessment for skin cancer like squamous cell carcinoma. Foot and ankle ulcers are categorized into three main types: venous ulcers affect lower legs, neurotrophic ulcers occur on diabetic feet, and arterial ulcers due to compromised circulation.”
Effects of Circulation and Neuropathy on Foot-Ulcer Development
Dr Rajeev Premnath defined, “Diabetes can result in foot ulcers through various mechanisms. Elevated blood sugar levels can induce nerve damage, reducing foot sensation and impairing injury detection. Moreover, diabetes can impede blood circulation, delaying wound healing. Coupled with compromised immune function, even minor injuries or pressure points from improperly fitting shoes can worsen the ulcer.”
He added, “Inadequately managed diabetes heightens infection risk, complicating ulcer treatment and potentially leading to severe consequences like gangrene and amputation if neglected. Consistent foot care and effective glucose management are crucial for averting diabetic foot ulcers. Additional health conditions and factors increasing foot ulcer risk include heart and kidney disease, obesity, nerve damage and alcohol and tobacco use.”
He recommended the some sensible ideas for people with diabetes to stop foot ulcers and highlighted that to mitigate the danger of foot ulcers, notably amongst people inclined attributable to situations like diabetes, adhering to the next tips is crucial –
- Conduct common foot examinations to detect any indicators of irritation, fissures, or thickened pores and skin. Utilise a mirror or enlist the assistance of a member of the family if visible impairment is a priority.
- Maintain foot hygiene by washing them day by day with mild cleaning soap and heat water. Thoroughly dry the ft, paying shut consideration to the areas between the toes and apply moisturizer to stop dryness.
- Choose correctly becoming footwear and mushy, moisture-absorbing socks. Before carrying, examine footwear for overseas objects or tough edges. Change socks promptly in the event that they change into damp or sweaty.
- Trim toenails straight throughout utilizing applicable instruments similar to a nail clipper or emery board.
- Consult with a healthcare skilled for steerage on managing corns or calluses, as they might necessitate skilled intervention.
Podiatrists and Specialists: Essential for Diabetic Foot Health
Dr Rajeev Premnath stated, “Doctors assess foot ulcers, especially in diabetes patients, by visually inspecting the foot, checking for infection, assessing sensation (or lack of it), vascular compromise and assessing blood sugar control and type of footwear used. With adequate circulation and medical care, healing can occur in 3 to 6 weeks, while deeper ulcers may take 12 to 20 weeks, sometimes requiring surgical intervention.”
He suggested, “Adopting lifestyle modifications to effectively manage diabetes is crucial for promoting foot health. By integrating a balanced diet, regular physical activity and vigilant blood sugar monitoring, survelliance of the foot for injuries/infections early individuals can reduce the risk of complications and enhance overall well-being.”
Source: www.hindustantimes.com
