Neglect Can Lead to Amputation... Prevent Complications with Clean Foot Care
[Asia Economy Yeongnam Reporting Headquarters Reporter Lee Seryeong] The 14th of last month was the ‘World Diabetes Day’ established by the International Diabetes Federation and the World Health Organization in 1991.
It was established to raise awareness of the disease and to strive for the eradication of diabetes, which can threaten life through various complications.
Diabetes is a metabolic disease characterized by insufficient insulin secretion or impaired normal function.
In addition to genetic factors, stress, overeating, lack of exercise, obesity, and old age are cited as causes.
According to data released by the International Diabetes Federation, as of 2017, the global diabetic population was 425 million, and it is projected to increase by 48% to reach 629 million by 2024.
The Korean Diabetes Association’s ‘2018 Fact Sheet’ estimated that there are more than 5 million patients domestically, and including the prediabetic stage, the number is expected to exceed 13 million.
Compared to other diseases, diabetes has severe complications, requiring the earliest possible diagnosis and clear treatment.
A representative complication, diabetic foot disease, mainly appears as foot ulcers, experienced at least once by about 15-25% of diabetic patients.
When suffering from diabetes, blood circulation is poor and sensation is dulled, so even if wounds occur on the feet, they are often not felt well.
Resistance to bacteria is also weakened, making it common for small wounds to rapidly progress into ulcers.
Because of this, 50% of patients with this condition experience infectious complications, and 20% undergo foot amputation.
Main symptoms include burning sensation, foot numbness, sensory loss, skin color changes, and blisters, requiring examination and treatment according to symptoms.
To prevent the complication commonly called ‘diabetic foot,’ it is important to wash feet cleanly every day and dry them thoroughly.
Applying moisturizing cream to prevent dryness, wearing socks that absorb sweat well, and shoes with good ventilation are recommended.
Daily inspection of the feet for wounds or abnormalities is necessary, and if any abnormal symptoms appear even slightly, professional medical help should be sought.
Those with poor blood sugar control, a history of diabetic foot disease, foot deformities, athlete’s foot, calluses, or corns have a relatively high incidence of foot disease.
Patients with neuropathy or peripheral vascular disease, or those who smoke, are also at higher risk for these complications and should be especially cautious.
Besides diabetic foot, there are various chronic complications such as retinopathy, nephropathy, neuropathy, coronary artery disease, peripheral artery disease, and cerebrovascular disease.
Acute complications that can be life-threatening include diabetic ketoacidosis and hyperglycemic hyperosmolar syndrome.
Dr. Seongho Yoo of Daedong Hospital Foot Center said, “Diabetic foot disease frequently recurs and, if neglected, can lead to leg amputation,” emphasizing, “Early response is very important, so practicing preventive measures in daily life is necessary.”
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