7 Preventions for Diabetic Patients

     It is not uncommon for individuals with diabetes to question how diabetic wounds develop and who may be at risk. Today, diabetic wounds are considered one of the most common complications among people living with diabetes. Understanding the risk factors and knowing how to effectively manage and prevent such wounds is essential and should not be overlooked. Failure to properly care for diabetic wounds can lead to chronic inflammation, the progression of the wound, and, in severe cases, the need for limb amputation.

3 Primary Causes of Diabetic Wounds

1.  Peripheral Neuropathy

     Peripheral neuropathy is one of the leading causes of diabetic wounds. Patients with diabetes often experience numbness or a loss of sensation, particularly in the extremities, such as the feet. Persistently high blood sugar levels can damage the nervous system, resulting in neuropathy. As a result, patients may not notice injuries when they occur, allowing them to worsen and develop into diabetic wounds.

2.  Vascular Abnormalities

     Vascular disorders are another major contributor to diabetic wound formation. Conditions such as arteriosclerosis or vascular blockages can affect both large arteries and small capillaries. When blood circulation is impaired, tissue may become ischemic and susceptible to injury.

Even minor wounds may heal poorly due to inadequate blood supply, leading to chronic inflammation, especially in areas such as the toes or heels.

3.  Infection Complications

     Infection is also a significant cause of diabetic wounds. Diabetic patients are more prone to infections, particularly on the toes and soles, which are frequently exposed to bacteria. Poor wound healing due to reduced blood flow makes the area more vulnerable to severe infections. In advanced stages, this can result in tissue necrosis, requiring surgical removal of the affected part, such as a toe or foot.

Type And Symptoms

     Diabetic wounds are complications associated with both the nervous and vascular systems, typically resulting from poorly controlled blood glucose levels. When blood sugar remains elevated over time, it damages blood vessels and impairs nerve function. This causes peripheral neuropathy, leading to numbness, especially in the feet, and increasing the risk of unnoticed injuries that develop into serious wounds.

Who Is at Risk for Diabetic Wounds?

     Those at greatest risk are individuals who have lived with diabetes for an extended period. The longer one has the condition, the higher the risk of developing wounds becomes. This is especially true for patients with a history of chronic diabetic wounds over 5–10 years.

7 Self-Care Tips to Prevent Diabetic Wounds

• Inspect Your Feet Daily: Check your feet daily for abnormalities such as scratches, redness, rashes, blisters, peeling between the toes, corns, or discolored nails.
• Clean Your Feet Daily: Wash your feet daily and dry them thoroughly to prevent infections.
• Moisturize Regularly: Apply moisturizer to prevent dryness and cracking, but avoid applying cream between the toes to reduce moisture buildup and the risk of infection.
• Trim Nails Carefully: Trim your toenails with care, avoiding nails that are too long or too short to prevent injury.
• Wear Clean, Proper Socks: Choose clean, seamless socks that are breathable and not too tight to reduce friction and enhance comfort.
• Choose Proper Footwear: Wear properly fitted shoes both indoors and outdoors to avoid pressure points and injury.
• Exercise the Feet: Perform foot exercises regularly to promote better blood circulation.

Recommendations For Managing Diabetic Wounds

     Given that diabetic wounds may arise from multiple causes and sometimes require complex diagnosis and treatment, early care is essential to avoid progression to amputation. If a wound is discovered, it should be promptly cleaned with an antiseptic or sterile saline solution, covered with a clean gauze dressing, and protected from trauma or environmental exposure.

The wound should be cleaned daily. If there is no sign of improvement within 2–3 days, consult a medical specialist immediately for proper and timely treatment.