Articles
Diabetes care: 10 ways to avoid complications
Content
1. Make a commitment to managing your diabetes
2. Don't smoke
3. Keep your blood pressure and cholesterol under control
4. Schedule regular physicals and eye exams
5. Keep your vaccines up to date
6. Take care of your teeth
7. Pay attention to your feet
8. Consider a daily aspirin
9. If you drink alcohol, do so responsibly
10. Take stress seriously
7. Pay attention to your feet
High blood sugar can reduce blood flow and damage the nerves in your feet. Left untreated, cuts and blisters can lead to serious infections. Diabetes can lead to pain, tingling or loss of sensation in your feet.
To prevent foot problems:
- Wash your feet daily in lukewarm water. Avoid soaking your feet, as this can lead to dry skin.
- Dry your feet gently, especially between the toes.
- Moisturize your feet and ankles with lotion or petroleum jelly. Do not put oils or creams between your toes — the extra moisture can lead to infection.
- Check your feet daily for calluses, blisters, sores, redness or swelling.
- Consult your doctor if you have a sore or other foot problem that doesn't start to heal within a few days. If you have a foot ulcer — an open sore — see your doctor right away.
- Don't go barefoot, indoors or outdoors.
