Do your homework! Here are some facts you must know about diabetic foot!

Three months ago, **Hunan Provincial Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine (Affiliated Hospital of Hunan Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine)** admitted a patient with severe diabetic foot.

Mr. Zhang, who is less than 40 years old, has suffered from diabetes for many years. He did not take blood sugar control drugs systematically and standardizedly, and gradually developed diabetic foot ulcers. When he came to the hospital for treatment, his condition was already in an extremely serious stage. The ulcer area was very large, from the foot to the thigh, and the infection was serious. After debridement and anti-infection treatment, the infection was still difficult to control, and it was complicated by necrotizing fasciitis, which quickly developed into sepsis and shock. Finally, in order to save his life, he was forced to undergo amputation surgery.

Director Chen Xilong of the Diabetic Foot Treatment Center of the Hunan Provincial Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine (Affiliated Hospital of Hunan Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine) reminds that patients must know about diabetic foot early and seek early treatment to avoid the disease from developing to the point where amputation is required.

1. What is diabetic foot?

Diabetic foot is one of the serious complications that causes disability or death in diabetic patients. It refers to foot ulcers or deep tissue destruction caused by lower limb nerve and/or vascular lesions in diabetic patients, with or without infection.

2. How serious are the hazards of diabetic foot?

Risk of infection: Diabetic foot is often accompanied by nerve damage and poor blood circulation, which can easily lead to trauma and ulcers in the foot, increasing the risk of bacterial infection. Severe infection may lead to sepsis.

Functional impairment: Diabetic foot may lead to limited activities, affect daily life and work ability, and affect the patient's independence.

Amputation: If the infection of diabetic foot cannot be controlled or severe tissue necrosis occurs, amputation surgery may have to be performed, which will bring great physical and psychological burden to the patient.

3. Why is early prevention and treatment necessary?

According to research, the cost of treating diabetic foot is usually high and is closely related to the patient's quality of life. Early detection and treatment can significantly reduce the risk of amputation and multiple complications. For diabetic patients, maintaining good blood sugar control and regular foot examinations are key measures to prevent diabetic foot.

4. What are the early symptoms of diabetic foot?

The early symptoms of diabetic foot may not be noticeable, but it is important to pay attention to the following signs:

Cold or numb lower limbs: Changes in temperature in the legs or feet, and numbness.

Pain or Discomfort: Significant discomfort or pain when walking, which may require frequent breaks.

Decreased sensation: The sense of touch in the feet is reduced, and the feeling of stepping on the ground is unclear.

Skin changes: Dry, cracked, red, or swollen skin on the feet.

5. What are the preventive measures for diabetic foot?

Check your feet regularly: Check your feet every day, paying attention to any minor cuts, blisters, or redness.

Maintain blood sugar control: Follow a strict diet, medication, and exercise plan to keep blood sugar within a reasonable range.

Choose suitable shoes: Wear shoes that fit well and are comfortable to wear and avoid abrasion and pressure.

Pay attention to foot hygiene: wash your feet regularly, keep them dry, and deal with foot problems in a timely manner.

Diabetic foot is a serious complication. Early knowledge and early treatment are the key to reducing its impact. If you have the above symptoms or concerns, please be sure to consult a professional doctor in time. Regular professional examinations and daily self-care are indispensable in the management of diabetes.

Through scientific prevention and treatment, you can better protect your feet and enjoy a healthier life. Remember, early detection and early treatment will greatly reduce the risk of amputation and help you move towards a better tomorrow.

Hunan Medical Chat Special Author: Ou Liang, Department of Orthopedics and Traumatology, Hunan Provincial Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine (Affiliated Hospital of Hunan Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine)

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(Edited by Wx)