Diabetes: Get the Facts for Your Feet

40968279_S_ stop_sign_awareness_diabetes.jpg

November is American Diabetes Month and at Pasco-Hernando Foot & Ankle, we want patients in Pasco and Hernando counties to be proactive about this disease, which can have devastating effects on your feet and the rest of your body. Fortunately, there is much that patients and podiatrists can do to help prevent and manage diabetes. Below are some facts you should know.

FACT: Over 30 million Americans have diabetes—that’s nearly 1 in 10 people. Approximately 1.5 million new cases are diagnosed every year.

FACT: Conditions commonly associated with diabetes—neuropathy (loss of sensation in your feet), poor circulation and decreased immune system functioning—can create a perilous situation for your feet. The inability to perceive sensations like pain, burning and itching accurately may mean that you could sustain an injury or have a foot condition develop that could go undetected for quite some time. This increases the chance of infection. Poor circulation and immune system dysfunction inhibit healing and lead to systemic infection and even limb amputation.

FACT: Over 84 million Americans age 18 and older have pre-diabetes. Changes in lifestyle can reduce the risk of developing this disease. These include:

  • Eating a nutritious diet

  • Losing weight if you are overweight

  • Exercising regularly

  • Not smoking

FACT: Our podiatrist, Dr. Lawrence J. Kales, is your partner in preventing and helping control the symptoms and effects of diabetes. If you have been diagnosed with diabetes, you should contact our Spring Hill (352 683-5799) or Hudson (727-868-2128) office for an appointment. Regular podiatric checkups will decrease your chances of developing a serious medical complication from diabetes.

FACT: Self-exams of your feet can help detect symptoms of diabetes in its early stages. Look for cuts and bruises that seem very slow to heal. Be aware of tingling, feelings of numbness or pain in your feet. Non-podiatric symptoms may include increased need to urinate, excessive thirst, hunger, and blurry vision.

If you have concerns with any unusual symptoms in your feet or questions about diabetes, contact us today.

Diabetes, diabetic foot carePasco-Hernando Foot & Ankleneuropathy, healthy diet, exercise, infection