Monsoon likely to trigger foot ulcers in diabetic patients: Experts

Monsoon raises the risk of foot ulcers in people with diabetes due to increased moisture and humidity said experts on Sunday stating the urgent need for specialised care and awarenessDiabetic foot is a severe complication of diabetes that takes a toll on the feet due to prolonged high blood sugar levels It raises the risk of nerve damage neuropathy and poor blood circulation foot ulcers infections and amputation in severe casesAn estimated 15 per cent of diabetics are likely to experience the foot problem While the risk runs all year increased humidity during monsoons worsens the condition said expertsDiabetic foot cases are seen more often especially in hot and humid weather though we see them across the year More than 50 per cent of people with diabetes experience foot infections during monsoon People in the age group 5065 with uncontrolled diabetes tend to commonly suffer from foot infections Shashank Joshi Endocrinologist Lilavati Hospital Mumbai told usDiabetic foot ulcer patients with severe infection may even require amputation It also accounts for a significant proportion of nontraumatic lowerlimb amputations stressing the need for preventive care and timely interventionDiabetic foot ulcers lead to serious infections amputations and decreased quality of life With monsoon season raising the risk due to increased moisture and humidity diabetic patients need to maintain foot hygiene opt for regular checkups and wear appropriate footwear to prevent ulcers said Jaisom Chopra Vascular Surgeon at Apollo Spectra Hospitals DelhiAccording to a recent study by the Christian Medical College Vellore in India more people with diabetes are having their toes or even feet removed due to sores than the former estimates It also found that after one amputation the chance of having another in the future is three times higherThe reason for this is lack of nerve sensation and blood supply so awareness and regular foot care is crucial This is preventable Shashank saidThe key to good foot care is good sugar control and care of nerves and vessels as well as regular feet check Specialist diabetic footwear is also available and people living with diabetes should seek expert careHe advised diabetics to quit smoking to enhance circulation dry your feet not walk barefoot trim nails regularly choose good quality socks if you are wearing shoes and to consult an expert in case of wounds redness blisters or ulcersAlso read Five essential tips to stay diseasefree this monsoonThis story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed agencies Midday accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability trustworthiness reliability and data of the text Midday managementmiddaycom reserves the sole right to alter delete or remove without notice the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever