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Why Does Diabetes Affect Your Feet

A DiabetesTeam Member asked a question 💭
Starkville, MS
August 22
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A DiabetesTeam Member

Not enough oxygenated blood flow reaches the feet.

August 22
A DiabetesTeam Member

Diabetes can affect your feet due to several reasons:

1. Nerve Damage (Neuropathy)
- Peripheral Neuropathy: This is the most common type of diabetic neuropathy, affecting the feet and legs first. Symptoms include numbness, tingling, and a reduced ability to feel pain or temperature changes. This can lead to unnoticed read more

Diabetes can affect your feet due to several reasons:

1. Nerve Damage (Neuropathy):
- Peripheral Neuropathy: This is the most common type of diabetic neuropathy, affecting the feet and legs first. Symptoms include numbness, tingling, and a reduced ability to feel pain or temperature changes. This can lead to unnoticed injuries.
- Autonomic Neuropathy: Affects bodily functions like blood pressure and digestion, which can indirectly impact foot health.

2. Reduced Blood Supply:
- Diabetes can reduce blood flow to the feet, making it difficult for injuries to heal and increasing the risk of infections.

3. Increased Risk of Infections:
- High blood sugar levels can make it easier for bacteria to grow, leading to infections. Common infections include skin infections on the feet.

4. Complications:
- Foot problems like ulcers, infections, deformities, and damage to bones and joints can occur. If left untreated, these issues may lead to amputation.

5. Loss of Sensation:
- Nerve damage can lead to a loss of sensation, making it difficult to feel sores, blisters, or injuries.

Preventive Measures:
- Regularly inspect your feet, especially after a shower or at the end of the day.
- Apply a clean dressing with an antiseptic if you notice a blister and contact your podiatrist or physician.
- Inspect the insides of your shoes before putting them on.

Sources:
- Neuropathy and Diabetes | DiabetesTeam
- If You Have Diabetes, Foot Care a Must | DiabetesTeam

 This AI-generated response comes from DiabetesTeam and other selected sources. It is not a substitute for medical advice. Always ask your doctor about specific health concerns.

Neuropathy and Diabetes | DiabetesTeam
Signs and Symptoms of Type 2 Diabetes | DiabetesTeam
August 22

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