What’s better than a hot water bottle or a warm blanket, especially in winter, to keep your toes warm or to soothe that stiff back after a busy day at work? But it turns out that some things commonly used by people around the world can be a major health hazard to those who diabetes,
Diabetes is a disease of complications and most of the time, people do not get any associated symptoms early in the course of the disease. And if diabetes for a long time (type 1 or type 2 diabetes) has begun to affect your nerves, decreasing the skin’s sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures. In such situations, using a hot water bottle or warm blanket can cause severe burns, which can prove to be quite problematic.
This is why diabetic patients are advised to cover their toes when they go out for a walk or even indoors, especially if they know they have neuropathy,
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One of the most common complications associated with diabetics is sensitivity and no pain sensation, a condition where even the tiniest of wounds occur. rash, or the allergy may progress to gangrene, which may take months to heal or, in the worst cases, require surgical intervention/amputation. This is because there has been an increase blood sugar level This causes the muscles to gradually weaken, and can cause crushing of the skin and subcutaneous tissue – which is why diabetics are advised not to use hot packs.
Effective management of diabetes and proper care can prevent surgical intervention/amputation and reduce the chances of any infection (source: Pixabay)
Taking small precautions goes a long way in leading a healthy life with diabetes. Diabetic neuropathy may initially start as simple symptoms such as some tingling or numbness in the toes or feeling as if you are walking. Cotton, It can also cause severe burning in the feet, usually at night. These symptoms should not be ignored and you should consult your doctor if you experience any. These are treatable problems and if treated on time, long term issues with diabetic feet etc can be prevented.
To avoid complications related to diabetes, in addition to keeping your sugar under control, also ensure that blood pressure and cholesterol levels are under control. smoking It also increases the risk of complications related to diabetes, so it is most important to quit smoking when you have diabetes.
Effective management of diabetes and proper care can prevent surgical intervention/amputation and reduce the chances of any infection. Extreme caution is advised if you are suffering from diabetes. Wash your hands and feet daily with lukewarm water and soap and dry them thoroughly. Apply moisturizer twice a day. Always check your skin for rashes, blisters or cuts. for any pain, ulcer, or blackness – timing is the key. Patients should consult a vascular surgeon as soon as possible to ensure adequacy of blood flow and to advise wound care, if any.
So the next time you reach for that hot water bottle or warm blanket, keep that in mind!
(Dr Hemi Soneja is a Senior Consultant – Endocrinologist at Max Hospital, Gurugram)
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