Even with Advances, Diabetics Need to Be Watchful of their Condition
Monday, 14 April 2014 00:00East Orange resident Roselle Hartsfield has a lot to live for. The 84 year old mother to seven, grandmother to fifteen and great-grandmother to seven, Hartsfield has contended with diabetes since her 50’s, and is well aware that her long-term well-being is at risk.
“I have glaucoma in my eyes and two years ago, two of my toes got so badly infected that I had to go into a hyperbaric chamber for 39 days to avoid amputation,” she said. Although there have been many advances in diabetic care, diabetics need to do what they can do monitor their health with vigilance. Conscious of this, Hartsfield is determined to ensure her health is accounted for in order to avoid amputation or worse.
Diabetes is a very serious condition that can result in amputation or worse if left untreated. If you are diabetic, visit podiatrist Dr. Kevin H. Lapoff, DPM of Lake Worth Podiatry. Dr. Lapoff can treat your diabetic feet.
Diabetic Foot Care
Diabetes affects millions of people of all ages each year. Diabetes damages blood vessels in many parts of the body, including the feet. When damage occurs to nerves in the feet, they may be unable to send the proper signals to the peripheral nervous system, resulting in a condition known as neuropathy. Once a diabetic patient develops neuropathy, it is imperative that the feet are well taken care of to avoid possible amputation of the feet.
The Importance of Caring for Your Feet
- Regularly check your feet for bruises or sores.
- Wear socks that fit your feet; socks shouldn’t be tight.
- Wear properly fitting shoes that are comfortable.
Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their Hemoglobin A1C levels as this test lets the physician know how well the blood sugar levels have been controlled during the past 3 months. It is important to keep the blood sugar levels in a normal range (70-110mg/dl). It is advisable to visit a podiatrist if the diabetic patient is experiencing any conditions involving the feet.
For more information about Diabetic Foot Care, follow the link below.
If you have any questions feel free to contact our office in Lake Worth, FL. We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology to meet your needs.
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