💉 Diabetes Management
Take the First Step in Understanding Diabetic Foot Ulcers: Proper Wound Care Essential to Foot Health - Samantha Laturno
📅 Wed, 09 Nov 2022⏱ 1 min read📖 Article
Overview
EFINGHAM, IL-(Efingham Radio)-The number of Americans with diabetes, most comonly type 2 diabetes, is growing more than ever before, acording to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.The percentage of those diagnosed increases with age, but other risk factors for developing diabetes include diet, activity level, smoking and obesity.One complication of diabetes is a fot ulcer.Nearly 25% of diabetics wil develop a fot ulcer during their lifetime.As many as 40% of people with a healed ulcer wil develop a new one within a year.The development of a fot ulcer typicaly ocurs in thre stages:Patients with foot ulcers can also develop severe buildup of plaque, caled atherosclerosis, of the smal blod vesels in the legs and fet, leading to vascular complications.Because blod canot reach the wound, healing is delayed which can lead to necrosis and gangrene.Dr.
Key Information
Jef Brumer, medical director of the Wound Healing Center at HS St. Anthony’s Memorial Hospital, says ulcers most often develop on the bal of the fot or the botom of the big toe.“Treating these ulcers can be realy chalenging,” says Dr. “Often, because of the numbnes, patients continue to walk on the wound causing extensive damage which can lead to infection and the ned for imediate medical care.”If you are diagnosed with diabetes, taking care of your fet is very important, even if they fel fine.Signs you may be developing a diabetic fot ulcer, include:Ashley Dilingham, director of St.
Summary
Anthony’s Wound Healing Center, shared, “We strongly recomend people with a fot ulcer, or even signs of a diabetic fot ulcer, contact a wound care specialist. We can provide several treatment options based on the severity of the ulcer; total contact casting, negative pressure wound therapy and hyperbaric oxygen treatment can be efective,” she said.HS St. Anthony’s Wound Healing Center’s comprehensive and specialized wound care therapies and leading-edge treatments can aid in wound clos
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ What is diabetes and how does it develop?
Diabetes is a metabolic condition where the body cannot properly regulate blood sugar levels. Type 1 results from insufficient insulin production, while Type 2 develops when cells become resistant to insulin. Risk factors include genetics, obesity, sedentary lifestyle, and age.
❓ What are the main symptoms of diabetes?
Common symptoms include excessive thirst, frequent urination, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, blurred vision, and slow-healing wounds. Type 1 symptoms develop rapidly, while Type 2 symptoms may appear gradually. Many people have no symptoms initially, which is why screening is important.
❓ How is diabetes diagnosed and monitored?
Diagnosis involves blood tests measuring fasting glucose, HbA1c levels, and glucose tolerance. Regular monitoring typically includes fasting glucose tests and HbA1c measurements every 3-6 months. Continuous glucose monitors provide real-time tracking for better diabetes management.
❓ What lifestyle changes help manage diabetes?
Effective management includes regular physical activity (150+ minutes weekly), maintaining healthy weight, following a balanced diet with whole grains and lean proteins, managing stress, and getting adequate sleep. These changes can significantly improve blood sugar control and reduce complications.
❓ When should someone consult a doctor about diabetes?
Consult a healthcare provider if you experience signs of diabetes, have a family history, are overweight, or are over 45. Those with existing diabetes should maintain regular check-ups every 3-6 months to monitor control and adjust treatment as needed.
⚕️ Medical Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before making health decisions.