Monsoon footcare tips for diabetics
Dr Shefali Karkhanis, consultant diabetes specialist and Director of Karkhanis Super Speciality Hospital for Diabetes and Eye in Thane, brings over 20 years of experience and accolades, including a gold medal and publications in national and international journals. She has also been a national speaker at numerous diabetes conferences.
What is diabetic foot? Why does it happen?
Diabetes impacts the feet through nerve and blood vessel damage, altering sensations and reducing blood flow. Symptoms include dry skin, tingling, numbness, pain at night, balance issues and foot deformities. Nerve damage reduces pain awareness, hence masking injuries. Poor blood supply causes infections and slow wound healing. This is termed as Diabetic Foot. Untreated, it can result in amputation. Careful monitoring and prompt treatment of minor wounds is crucial for preventing serious complications in diabetic patients.
How can diabetic patients prevent foot infections during the monsoon?
During monsoon, people should wash feet immediately after returning home and dry thoroughly, especially between toes (do not wash or soak in hot water). Moisturise feet before bed. Inspect daily for cuts, blisters and calluses. Always wear comfortable footwear, avoid walking barefoot and seek medical attention promptly incase of injuries.
What kind of footwear do you recommend for diabetics during the monsoon?
Footwear is crucial for diabetic foot care. One must avoid plastic shoes; opt for sandals with soft soles and back straps. Since feet swell a little by evening, prefer buying new shoes by the end of the day. Choose closed shoes with a broad toe box and soft inner soles. Always wear socks and change them when wet.
How should diabetics treat minor cuts or blisters while constant travelling is required?
One must promptly treat every cut or injury. Wash the injury with water, dry with a clean towel and apply antibiotic cream. Use gauze and bandage; avoid antiseptics solutions, band-aids, plasters, corn caps, cotton or turmeric. Contacting a doctor for deep wounds is recommended.
Dr Shefali Karkhanis
Karkhanis Hospital
Address – Karkhanis Hospital, 1st floor, Soham Plaza (North East Wing), Tikuji Ni Wadi Road, Pokhran Road No. 2, Next to Titan Hospital, Manpada, Thane (West).
For more information, call – 9004263422 / 9920790204