Diabetes mellitus or more commonly referred to as diabetes
is a condition where the body cannot produce enough insulin therefore
increasing blood sugar. Insulin is a hormone responsible for the absorption of
sugars into the cells. It is mainly produced by the pancreas. Among the other diseases diabetes can cause, the most common problem affecting the lower extremities is diabetic foot.
Normally, the pancreas produces insulin after meals to
regulate carbohydrates and sugars that are absorbed in the gut. In case of
diabetes, these regulatory processes fail or are insufficient.
There are two types of diabetes mellitus. Type I diabetes or
juvenile diabetes starts from birth, caused by the destruction of the insulin
producing cells in the pancreas. For this reason, these patients are insulin
dependent. Medications, more particularly the injectable insulin are given for
the patient to survive.
Type II diabetes or adult onset diabetes is the most common
type of diabetes accounting for 90% to 95% of all diabetics. In type II, there
is high blood sugar but there is less insulin being produced or insulin is not
efficient enough to decrease blood sugar. Usually, this is initially treated
with dietary modifications and exercise. Insulin medication is used only when
diet and exercise fail to decrease blood sugar.
If diabetes is not managed properly, high sugar levels over
time can lead to fatty deposits in the blood vessel walls. This can affect
blood flow and ultimately get obstructed. When blood vessels are obstructed the
peripheral nerves especially on the hands and feet die out. This is why it is
important for diabetics to observe foot care.
Due to nerve destruction, a diabetic may have decreased
sensation on one foot or both feet. This can hinder a patient from sensing
minor injuries to the foot such as cuts or blisters. Coupled with poor blood
circulation, these cuts can lead to an infection because of poor wound healing.
In some cases, injuries of the foot like sprain, strains, or a fracture can go
undetected because the patient cannot feel any foot or heel pain. If these
conditions are left undetected, then foot deformities can occur or a foot
infection can worsen leading to an amputation.
For this reason, diabetics should learn how to inspect and
observe their foot. If a decrease in sensation is noticed, seek medical
attention as soon as possible. The key to stopping any foot complications due
to diabetes is prevention.
For more information about foot complications due to
diabetes and proper foot care, please visit the Family Foot and Leg Center in
Naples or Contact Dr. Kevin Lam at (239) 430-3668.
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