Diabetes type 2: Dr Zoe Williams discusses high blood sugar risks
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For a person living with type 2 diabetes, having too much glucose in your blood for a long time can cause some serious health complications including problems in your feet. What are the eight signs warning your blood sugars are dangerously high found in your feet?
Having diabetes means a person is at much greater risk of developing foot problems.
This is because raised blood glucose, also known as blood sugar, can damage the sensation in the feet.
It can also affect circulation, which can lead to getting less blood supply to the feet.
Without a good blood supply, a person may have problems with cuts and sores healing, and they may also get cramps and pain in the legs or feet.
If you don’t get these problems treated, they could lead to foot ulcers, infections and, at worst, amputations.
The eight warning signs of high blood sugars found in your feet include:
- Increase swelling of legs or feet
- Change of skin colour
- Burning or tingling sensation
- Lack of feeling in the feet
- Numbness in the toes
- Ingrown toenails
- Slow to heal sores
- Cracks between toes
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It’s good to take time out to sit down and have a proper look at your feet every day, advised Diabetes UK.
The health site continued: “If you notice any changes or that you feel unwell you should do something about it straight away.
“A serious foot problem is when damage to your foot means it needs emergency attention.
“Having diabetes means that you’re more at risk of serious foot problems, and these can lead to amputation.”
According to the NHS, you should see a GP if you have any of the symptoms of type 2 diabetes or you’re worried you may have a higher risk of getting type 2 diabetes.
“A GP can diagnose diabetes. You’ll need a blood test, which you may have to go to your local health centre for if it cannot be done at your GP surgery,” explains the health body.
It adds: “The earlier diabetes is diagnosed, and treatment started, the better. Early treatment reduces your risk of other health problems.”
Following a formal diagnosis of type 2 diabetes, steps must be taken to lower high blood sugar levels which include eating healthier and getting more exercise.
A foot specialist can help determine your level of risk if you don’t know already.
Together, you’ll agree a personalised care plan, and this may involve treatment, advice about the best footwear and how to look after your feet, added Diabetes UK.
“You’ll see them regularly and this will be arranged through your local foot care service,” experts stated.
“You’ll get these appointments along with your annual diabetes foot check.
“It’s best to go to all of them. That way, you’ll get the best type of professional foot care and keep your feet healthy.”
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