Preventing Diabetes-Related Wounds and Amputations
Diabetes is a complex condition that affects how your body processes sugar. These issues can increase the risk of developing wounds that are slow to heal and, in severe cases, may lead to the need for amputation. CMC Wound Care knows how essential it is for patients with diabetes to understand how to prevent wounds, identify wounds that aren’t healing in a timely manner, and to know that there is specialized and effective care available here at CMC to help their wounds heal.
Importance of Preventing Wounds
Preventing wounds in individuals with diabetes is crucial in avoiding further health complications. Even minor injuries can quickly escalate into serious infections in diabetic individuals due to impaired immune function and reduced blood flow.
There are three main types of diabetic ulcers:
- Neuropathic: Develops when a person loses sensation and can’t feel pain due to peripheral neuropathy
- Ischemic: Develops when part of the body doesn’t receive enough blood flow due to ischemia
- Neuroischemic: Develops from both neuropathy and ischemia
If left untreated, diabetic ulcers can lead to gangrene and necrosis, which may require amputation. Amputation rates for people with diabetes are high, with 20% of people experiencing a lower-extremity amputation in their lifetime. Other consequences of foot ulcers include infection, decline in functional status, and death.
Tips for Preventing Wounds
Proper Foot Care
Regularly examine your feet for any cuts, blisters, or sores. Keep your feet clean and moisturized, and opt for comfortable, well-fitting shoes to reduce the risk of developing foot ulcers.
Blood Sugar Management
Maintaining stable blood sugar levels is essential for preventing complications associated with diabetes. Monitor your blood sugar regularly and follow your healthcare provider’s recommendations for managing your condition.
Healthy Lifestyle Choices
Eating a balanced diet, staying physically active, and avoiding smoking can all contribute to better overall health and reduce the risk of developing diabetes-related complications.
Recognizing Warning Signs
It’s important to be aware of the warning signs that may indicate a wound is developing. These can include redness, swelling, heat, pain, or drainage at the site of an injury. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical attention promptly.
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Diabetic Foot Ulcers
Diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) are the most common diabetic wounds and the leading cause of hospitalization for people with diabetes. They are open sores on the lower limbs that can become infected and usually develop on weight-bearing areas of the foot, such as the heel, ball of the foot, or bottom of the big toe.
What Is A Diabetic Foot Ulcer?
If you are one of the 34.2 million Americans living with diabetes, you could be at risk for a chronic wound known as a diabetic foot ulcer. High blood sugar makes it hard for wounds to heal by reducing the amount of oxygen-rich blood that reaches wounds, especially on the lower legs, feet, and toes. A diabetic foot ulcer is a wound that is usually found on the ball of the foot or the toes. It may start from a cut or scrape or a blister caused by poorly fitting shoes. Additionally, many people living with diabetes also have nerve damage in their lower limbs and do not feel pain when an ulcer begins.
- Up to 25% of people living with diabetes will experience a foot ulcer
- 85% of diabetes-related amputations started with a foot ulcer
Check Your Feet Daily:
CMC Wound Care stresses that if you live with diabetes, it is essential to check your feet for cuts, scrapes, blisters, red spots, and any other signs of a wound. A small, undetected wound can quickly worsen and lead to serious complications, including amputation. Here are some tips to ensure you are thoroughly checking your feet:
- Look at your toenails and between your toes.
- Use a mirror to see your bare feet, heels, and ankles.
- Ask a family member or friend to help.
- Never try to trim calluses or corns yourself.
- Ask your doctor to examine your feet at every visit.
Basic Foot Health Guidelines:
- Don’t go barefoot indoors or outdoors.
- Wash your feet daily. Dry between your toes. Do not use powder.
- If your feet become dry, moisturize them but do not get moisturizer between your toes.
- Avoid getting your feet too hot or too cold.
CMC Wound Care provides advanced therapies to aid in infection prevention, new tissue growth, and successful wound closure. It is important to seek specialized care from the Wound Care Center at CMC as soon as an ulcer develops.
Wound Care You Can Count On
CMC Wound Care reiterates that by taking proactive steps to prevent wounds and practicing good diabetes management, you can reduce the likelihood of developing serious complications that may result in the need for amputation. Remember that early intervention is key to preserving your health and well-being. Stay informed, stay vigilant, and prioritize your overall health to minimize the risks associated with diabetes-related wounds.
At CMC Wound Care, you will have the assistance and support you need during the healing process. Since the inception of our program, our team has treated over 4,200 patients and healed over 15,000 wounds. If you are dealing with an abscess or any other wounds that won’t heal, ask your primary care provider for a referral to CMC Wound Care or call 843-347-8347 for more information about our program.
