World Diabetes Day: How to take care of the feet of people with diabetes – ESS CVP Lisbon – Escola Superior de Saúde da Cruz Vermelha Portuguesa

Article published in Health News

On World Sickness Day (November 14), the birthday of Frederick Banting, one of those responsible for the discovery of insulin, is celebrated. This discovery greatly changed the knowledge and prognosis related to this pathology.

Diabetes in Portugal affects around 15 out of every 100 adults and is associated with several problems, such as retinopathy (which affects the eyes), nephropathy (which affects on the kidneys) and cerebrovascular disease (which increases the risk of acute heart attack). myocardium and stroke). However, these complications can be avoided through early diagnosis and good glycemic control, as well as risk factors.

At the level of the lower intestine, diabetes mainly increases the risk of peripheral arterial disease, neuropathy, deformities, infections, ulcers and podiatric amputations (that is, in the feet). Peripheral arterial disease defines changes in the blood vessels that are responsible for adequate circulation and, as a result, nutrition and oxygenation of tissues. Neuropathy describes changes in the nervous system that regulate sensitivity, sweating and muscle activity.

It is estimated that about 25% of people with diabetes will have at least one foot ulcer. However, it is important to look on the positive side! This statistic also indicates that approximately 75% will live without an ulcer. In addition, ulcers and amputations can be avoided. From? This is what will be explained below.
The first step is to ensure that the person with Diabetes is screened and that the level of risk of developing ulcers is identified. For example, people who do not have neuropathy or peripheral arterial disease have a similar risk of foot injury as the general population. However, from the moment neuropathy (mainly altered sensitivity) and/or peripheral arterial disease is detected, the risk increases and preventive care from the person with diabetes and closer monitoring by the Health team is essential. It is from this moment that we say that a person has a “Diabetic Foot”.

Read the full article here: https://healthnews.pt/2024/11/14/dia-mundial-da-diabetes-como-cuidar-dos-pes-da-pessoa-com-diabetes/