Foot Problems Connected with Diabetes

Many people aren’t aware of the many symptoms and side effects that come with diabetes. Not only do they have to worry about their insulin and sugar levels, but there are many different things that can happen to other parts of their body that can make life even more difficult. In fact, some symptoms even have a formal name to them, like the diabetic foot. Those who have too much sugar in their blood stream for an extended period of time can experience serious complications in their feet.

Diabetic neuropathy is when you begin to lose feeling in your feet. The nerves are damaged from diabetes and you can lose all sensation of heat, cold, and pain. If you have diabetic neuropathy and get a cut on your foot, you won’t even feel it and infection can set in pretty quickly. The muscles that are connected with the nerves in your foot may not function properly. Foot ulcers can also occur in those who have nerve damage in their feet.

The flow of your blood is affected when you have diabetes. When your body doesn’t have good blood flow, it will take much longer for any cuts or sores to heal. When the blood flow is poor in your legs and arms, it is called peripheral vascular disease. This circulation disorder affects the blood vessels that are away from the heart. Ulcers can also occur if you have an infection that won’t heal due to poor blood flow.

Along with the diabetic foot there are many other foot problems that can occur from diabetes. Athlete’s foot consists of a fungus that causes redness, cracking, and itching. Germs can get into those cracks and cause infections in your skin. Your toenails can also become infected with a fungal infection. The toenails can become thick and brittle, discolored, and even separate from the rest of the toenail. Calluses are another common problem in which a build-up of hard skin begins on your foot. Usually on the bottom of your foot, calluses can be formed from uneven weight distribution, improperly fitting shoes, or a skin abnormality.