Close to 24 million people in the United States have been diagnosed with diabetes and another 6 million people have it but are not yet aware they are afflicted with this disease. As the leading cause of non-traumatic, lower-limb amputations, diabetes is reaching epidemic proportions, now more than ever. It can have a devastating impact on the body, affecting numerous parts of the body including the eyes, mouth and feet. In fact, the feet, often overlooked at routine checkups, can reveal the first signs and symptoms of the disease. Commonly forgotten, patients neglect to take off their shoes and socks and ask their health care providers to inspect their feet. Proper education on the signs and symptoms of diabetes and having your feet checked every time you visit the doctor are pertinent to the management of the disease.
1. Why should my doctor ask me to remove my shoes and socks?
The feet, can tell us a thousand words, including the warning signs of Diabetes such as numbness, tingling, or ulcerations. Taking off your shoes and socks at every doctor’s visit is critical to the prevention and treatment of the manifestations of the disease.
2. Checking blood sugar often?
Since Diabetes is a disease attributed to hyperglycemia (high blood sugars) it is mandatory that you or a loved one make sure to check blood sugars on a daily basis. Most patients will say that since they “feel fine” that their blood sugars are controlled, but little do patients and loved ones know that with uncontrolled blood sugars, comes all the detrimental effects of Diabetes.
3. What can happen if diabetes is not detected in its early stages?
Many people do not find out they have the disease until they develop serious complications such as foot ulcers. In fact, six million Americans with diabetes have not been diagnosed. However, if left undiagnosed or untreated, it can damage the body and result in long-term complications such as lower-limb amputations, cardiovascular disease, stroke, blindness and kidney disorders.
5. Should I see a podiatrist if I have diabetes?
Treating diabetes requires a multi-disciplinary approach. A podiatrist is an integral part of the management and treatment team. Your primary care doctor may refer you to a dietician, nurse educator, endocrinologist, and an eye doctor to help you manage the disease.
If you need additional information on Diabetes, please contact:
Dr. Michael Garvin
St. Lucie West Office150 SW Chamber Court, Suite 101
(Behind TD Bank Bldg.)
Port St. Lucie, Florida 34986
772-871-6020
I
If you need additional information on Diabetes, please contact:
Dr. Michael Garvin
St. Lucie West Office150 SW Chamber Court, Suite 101
(Behind TD Bank Bldg.)
Port St. Lucie, Florida 34986
772-871-6020
I
