Diabetic foot ulcer: Symptoms and prevention

One in every five people with diabetes have gone through or had diabetic foot ulcers at least once in life, suggested World Health Organization’s data on diabetes. The data also revealed that this condition affects their life and family in one way or the other. Diabetes cases in the world are no less than a pandemic in itself and as per WHO, in the next 10 years, the world will see some 10 crores more cases of diabetes. This is why it is important to understand the implications of diabetes and address these issues in time. 

What is a diabetic foot ulcer

A diabetic foot ulcer is an open sore or wound that occurs in approximately 15% of diabetes patients. It commonly occurs on the bottom of the foot. Ulcers are formed as a result of skin tissue breaking down and exposing the layers underneath. This majorly happens because diabetic patients take time to heal in comparison with their non-diabetic counterparts and glucose level in the blood is risen in such people.

Also Read: Six early symptoms of type 2 diabetes that you should know

Symptoms of diabetic foot ulcer

Some primary symptoms include:

1- Blisters or other wounds on the foot

2- Numbness, tingling, and pain in the legs  

3- Discoloration of skin in the area

4- Foul smell from foot

5- Loss of balance

Preventions

Prevention can happen only when we are careful about our health and any change in the body is thoroughly checked and diagnosed. The best way to prevent diabetic foot ulcers is to get yourself checked by a doctor at least once every year.

Apart from that, people with increased blood sugar levels must ascertain to control their sugar levels, wear well-fitted shoes, avoid treating their corn at home, avoid smoking, and avoid consuming excessive amounts of alcohol.

Food habits and exercise also play a great role in prevention. If your diet and workout includes elements that control your blood sugar levels, and in turn preventing any side-effects.