Diabetic Foot Infections: What Are They and Treatment Options

We treat diabetic foot infections in our clinic. It is incredibly important for diabetics to take great care of their feet and observe any changes that are indicative of an infection. Since diabetics can lose their feet permanently, this is not something that one can take lightly.

Instead, it is incredibly important to call our clinic and schedule an appointment at the first sign of a problem. This allows us to complete a thorough physical examination and make a diagnosis before recommending steps for treatment. If we act quickly enough, we can usually prevent things like foot loss or other extreme results.

WHAT CAUSES DIABETIC FOOT INFECTIONS?

If diabetes remains untreated, it can damage the nerves in the legs and feet. The damage makes it possible for someone to not feel the traditional sensations of pain, heat or cold. This is called sensory diabetic neuropathy and can make it difficult for someone to notice if their foot sustains a cut, any damage or burns. As a result, feet can go uncared-for, leading to serious damage.

This condition also increases the likelihood of someone developing a foot ulcer. Since diabetes also reduces blood flow, it can lead to peripheral vascular disease. With reduced circulation, it is more likely that someone will suffer from gangrene, known as a death of the tissues. Finally, diabetes can reduce the ability of the white blood cells in the body to do their job.

White blood cells fight infection and with a foot infection, it is less likely that the body will be able to fight off the infection naturally. These problems combined make it incredibly important to visit a foot doctor at the first sign of a problem.

SIGNS OF A FOOT INFECTION

Essentially, diabetics can suffer the same types of foot problems that anyone can suffer from only it is more likely that they will do so. Additionally, it is more likely that these foot problems will escalate and turn into a serious infection that could even lead to an amputation. Some common signs of a foot problem are:

• Lack of sensation in the feet or constant tingling sensations
• Swelling
• Bruising
• Discoloration in the feet
• Dry skin that cracks
• Discolored toenails
• Itching
• Redness

Foot problems include:

• Hammertoes
• Blisters
• Corns
• Bunions
• Cuts and scrapes
• Calluses
• Fungal infections
• Athlete’s foot
• Warts

TREATING DIABETIC FOOT INFECTIONS

As a foot doctor, we have a variety of ways to treat foot problems. The treatment options we recommend are going to be based on the exact condition that a patient is dealing with. With diabetes, it is especially important to work to prevent problems by keeping feet clean and dry.

We always recommend that patients with diabetes wash their feet a minimum of once a day but preferably twice. We also recommend wearing clean socks and switching them out whenever there is an occasion to sweat or the feet get wet. This will go a long way in reducing the likelihood of an infection developing.

CALL FOR HELP

Get immediate help with your feet and begin treating the infection in order to increase the likelihood of being able to maintain mobility throughout your lifetime. Call our clinic today.