Causes behind Diabetic Amputations
High blood sugar can make blood vessels rough and inflexible, leading to vascular disease. This can cause numbness and increased chances of infections. Sometimes, people with diabetes may not even realize that they have wounds because they cannot feel them, and these wounds become serious and do not heal properly with time which can lead to amputation.
Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is frequently observed in people with diabetes. This condition results in the blockage of arteries and reduced blood flow. This compromised circulation makes the healing of ulcers more difficult. Hence, Inadequate blood supply contributes to the deterioration of ulcers, creating a pathway for infection and the possibility of needing leg amputation.
Uncontrolled diabetes can suppress your immune system. Insufficient white blood cells and blood supply lead to healthy tissue death. This enables the swift spread of life-threatening infections to bones and joints, making amputation the sole treatment choice.
These are a few causes that can lead to amputation, so we should avoid them by taking preventive actions in the early stages when we notice the first sign.
List of Risk factors
People who have diabetes are more prone to foot problems like infections and ulcers. The following are the risk factors involved which can lead to amputation:
- Nerve Damage (Neuropathy): Damaged nerves lessen feeling, making it tough to sense injuries or sores on the feet
- Being Overweight: Extra weight puts pressure on the feet, possibly leading to ulcers.
- Uncontrolled blood sugar: When diabetes is not managed, it can harm blood vessels and nerves, raising the chance of foot sores and other problems.
- Lack of foot care: Improper foot hygiene and wearing ill-fitting shoes can lead to the formation of ulcers.
- Past Ulcers or Amputations: If you have had ulcers or amputations before, you are more likely to have them again.
The positive thing is that you can avoid diabetic amputation by controlling your diabetes and looking after your feet. Keep reading to discover effective ways to safeguard your feet from the risk of amputation.
Make an effort today to save your feet
Take a step towards saving your feet from the risk of diabetic amputation by prioritizing proper foot care today. Maintain foot care by checking your feet daily for cuts, blisters, or sores. Wash and moisturize regularly, keeping them dry. Also, try simple foot exercises to enhance circulation and nerve function. To avoid diabetes-related issues, the most effective approach is to control your diabetes. This involves maintaining a balanced diet, engaging in regular exercise, consistently monitoring your blood sugar, and correctly taking your prescribed medication. Furthermore, avoiding smoking, effectively managing peripheral artery disease (PAD), and selecting appropriate footwear, are also important in decreasing the likelihood of diabetic amputation. Taking preventive measures is very important in this condition to avoid severe future complexities.
If you are suffering from any wound that does not go away, then discuss your condition with a medical professional right away. Amputation Free India is an initiative to raise awareness towards diabetic amputations and prevent you from this complexity of diabetes.
