Why are the feet a focal point when it comes to diabetes-related skin problems?
Because of the occluded blood vessels. The circulation is poorest around the toes and on the feet, causing bacterial and fungal infection. People with diabetes also tend to have less feeling in their feet and toes. Due to the loss of protective sensation, they may be unaware of a cut or blister and will ignore it until, often, it becomes much worse. The diabetic foot is the result of systemic changes associated with increased blood glucose, which can cause the classic triad of neurological, vascular and immune system deficits that can ultimately result in amputation. What kind of precautions can people with diabetes take to reduce their risk of skin problems? Maintain good hygiene and check the skin, and especially the feet, every day. First of all, use antibacterial soap, also called deodorant soaps. These include Lever 200, Dial and Safeguard, all of which contain antiseptics to lower the skin’s bacterial fungal count. Bacterial infections need to be treated early and aggressively to
