Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy

Patients suffering from prolonged diabetes often witness pain, numbness, or tingling sensations in the feet and occasionally in other parts of the body. The condition, caused mainly by nerve disorder, is referred to as ‘diabetic neuropathy’ in common medical parlance. Similar symptoms can also be seen in patients suffering from obesity or high levels of blood pressure. The onset of pain may be mild at first and often goes unnoticed. But age and lack of proper treatment aggravates it and makes it difficult for the patient to walk. This in turn leads to other clinical problems like weight loss and depression.

People suffering from focal neuropathy sometimes experience sudden and excruciating pain in the feet. A preliminary examination of blood composition and heart rate can help determine the cause of this common ailment and timely care and guidance may help in its control and cure. Neglect, on the other hand, may lead to serious consequences. Diabetes affects the blood circulation in the feet which in turn gives rise to ulcers. Due to numbness and lack of sensation in the feet, the patient might often fail to take notice of sores and injuries in the area. This leads to infections which often require drastic measures like amputation. Patients suffering from diabetic neurosis therefore need to take particular care of their feet. The following are 10 tips for diabetic patients to take proper care of the feet.

1. Feet should be thoroughly washed and dried at least once a day with lukewarm water and mild soap.

2. The soles and upper areas of the feet, including the folds between the toes, should be checked regularly for the slightest injuries or blisters. If detected, the aberration should be immediately reported to the doctor.

3. A mild moisturizer should be applied all over the feet, except between the toes, after cleaning.

4. Calluses and corns should be regularly filed with a pumice stone during or after bath.

5. Toe nails should be regularly cut, rounded and trimmed.

6. Walking barefoot should be strictly avoided. Thick socks can be used as an added protection from friction and injuries.

7. The insides of shoes and slippers to be worn should be checked for rough edges or protrusions.

8. The shoes or slippers should be thick, soft and well-fitting to avoid discomfort.

9. A podiatrist or foot doctor should be consulted for individual guidance.

10. A neurologist should be consulted for exercises that can help maintain the flexibility of the feet and reduce numbness.

Diabetes is a chronic disease and many other problems may be associated with it. It is essential to keep a watchful eye on diabetes patients as many cases of accidents have been noticed in such cases. It is to be realized that with proper care the effects of diabetes can be minimized and kept under control. Therefore, it is everyone’s duty to realize the potential harmful impacts of diabetes, in its severe form, and keep checking the blood sugar levels within regular duration.

Linus Orakles
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