Frequently Asked Questions On Diabetic Foot Ulcers
Diabetic Foot ulcers are a common complication seen in people with poorly controlled diabetes, formed as a result of skin tissue break down exposing the layers underneath. Diabetic ulcers are commonly found under your big toes and the balls of your feet, and they may affect your feet down to the bones.
Causes of diabetic ulcers include:
- poor circulation
- high blood sugar (hyperglycemia)
- nerve damage
- irritated or wounded feet
Protective measures against foot ulcers include:
- Diabetic shoes and socks
- Casts
- Foot braces
- Compression wraps
- Shoe inserts to prevent corns and calluses
Many effective topical treatments are available for diabetic foot ulcers, that include:
- dressings containing silver or silver sulphadiazine cream, hydrogel dressings
- polyhexamethylene biguanide (PHMB) gel or solutions
- iodine (either povidone or cadexomer)
- medical grade honey in ointment or gel form, callus treatment creams, foot creams But if your ulcer is severe please consult your doctor before starting any type of treatment.
What are the risk factors for foot ulcers?