Diabetic foot: warning signs

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Extract from the article: People with diabetes need to pay particular attention to their feet. Diabetes-related complications can make the feet particularly vulnerable. It is therefore crucial for diabetic patients to keep a regular check on their feet.

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People with diabetes need to pay particular attention to their feet. Diabetes-related complications can make the feet particularly vulnerable. It is therefore crucial for diabetic patients to keep a regular check on their feet.

The diabetic foot is characterised by ulceration or destruction of the tissues of the foot, whether infected or not, due to peripheral neuropathy (damage to the nerves of the foot) associated with vascular damage.

Why are the feet of diabetics more fragile?

Complications affecting the feet of diabetics are linked to a number of factors. Diabetes causes problems with the arteries and small blood vessels. This can compromise wound healing in the long term. In addition, arteritis, which reduces the supply of oxygen to the feet, aggravates the situation. At the same time, diabetes causes neuropathy, affecting the nerves and reducing sensitivity to pain. This insensitivity can lead to the neglect of even the most minor wounds, which can then become seriously complicated. Plantar perforation is one of the most serious dangers for diabetics. This wound, which is often painless, can lead to serious complications and even gangrene, sometimes necessitating amputation.

Signs to look out for to avoid complications

In addition to regular visits to the doctor, it is important for diabetic patients to examine their feet themselves to detect any abnormalities or injuries.Symptoms such as tingling, burning, hypersensitivity or insensitivity, oedema or redness should be taken seriously and prompt medical attention sought.Care should also be taken when using nail clippers, and suitable footwear should be chosen to avoid injury. For diabetic patients with foot deformities, varicose veins or who work on their feet, extra monitoring is required.

Regular monitoring and appropriate foot care are essential for diabetics to prevent serious complications and improve their quality of life.

Raymond DZAKPATA

Source: Pr Sampawende Macaire Ouédraogo, Head of Internal Medicine at Sourou Sanou Hospital (Burkina Faso)