Diabetes can affect your blood circulation and cause fluid to build up in the lower extremities. This buildup can cause swelling in the feet, ankles, and lower legs. Excess swelling of the feet and ankles due to fluid buildup in the tissues is known as edema.
In this post
How do you stop diabetic feet from swelling?
Compression socks will help circulate blood flow in your legs, feet, and ankles, which will reduce any swelling. You can purchase compression socks at a pharmacy, medical supply store, or an online retailer. Elevate your feet. Putting your feet higher than your heart will help relieve the swelling.
What are signs of diabetic feet?
Signs of Diabetic Foot Problems
- Changes in skin color.
- Changes in skin temperature.
- Swelling in the foot or ankle.
- Pain in the legs.
- Open sores on the feet that are slow to heal or are draining.
- Ingrown toenails or toenails infected with fungus.
- Corns or calluses.
- Dry cracks in the skin, especially around the heel.
When should I be concerned about swollen feet?
Get medical care as soon as possible if: You have unexplained, painful swelling of your feet or legs, particularly if it’s only in one leg. The swollen area becomes warm, red or inflamed. The swelling is accompanied by a fever.
What does diabetic legs look like?
Also known as “shin spots,” the hallmark of diabetic dermopathy is light brown, scaly patches of skin, often occurring on the shins. These patches may be oval or circular. They’re caused by damage to the small blood vessels that supply the tissues with nutrition and oxygen.
Does metformin cause feet to swell?
Symptoms can include: swelling or fluid retention, especially in your ankles or legs. shortness of breath or trouble breathing, especially when you lie down. unusually fast weight gain.
What are 3 things you should never do to the feet of someone with diabetes?
Avoid soaking your feet, as this can lead to dry skin. Dry your feet gently, especially between the toes. Moisturize your feet and ankles with lotion or petroleum jelly. Do not put oils or creams between your toes — the extra moisture can lead to infection.
Is diabetic foot curable?
Background. Diabetic foot infections are a frequent clinical problem. About 50% of patients with diabetic foot infections who have foot amputations die within five years. Properly managed most can be cured, but many patients needlessly undergo amputations because of improper diagnostic and therapeutic approaches.
What are the 5 main symptoms of diabetic neuropathy?
Diabetic Polyneuropathy
- Unusual sensations (paresthesias) such as tingling, burning or prickling.
- Numbness and pain in the hands, legs and feet.
- Weakness of the muscles in the feet and hands.
- Sharp pains or cramps.
- Extreme sensitivity to touch.
- Insensitivity to pain or temperature changes.
What is the main cause of swollen feet?
Common causes of swollen ankles, feet and legs
eating too much salty food. being overweight. being pregnant. taking certain medicines – such as some blood pressure medicines, contraceptive pills, hormone therapy, antidepressants or steroids.
How do you know if swelling is serious?
Internal swelling is often a side effect of a medication or the result of a serious injury. You should seek immediate medical attention if you experience rapid, unexplainable swelling, especially if you also experience unexplained weight gain and pain.
These include:
- itching.
- vomiting.
- flatulence.
- pain in the affected area.
Can dehydration cause swollen feet?
“Usually, individuals who suffer from heaviness and leg swelling make the mistake of not drinking enough water – says Dr. Marco Setti, Head of Vascular Surgery at Humanitas Gavazzeni. Instead, it is necessary to introduce fluids into the body by eating lots of vegetables and fruits as well as drinking natural water.
How do I know if my diabetes is getting worse?
Final Words. These are some signs that your type 2 diabetes is getting worse. Other signs like a tingling sensation, numbness in your hand or feet, high blood pressure, increase in appetite, fatigue, blurred vision, trouble seeing at night, and more shouldn’t be overlooked.
Where do you itch if you have diabetes?
Localized itching is often caused by diabetes. It can be caused by a yeast infection, dry skin, or poor circulation. When poor circulation is the cause of itching, the itchiest areas may be the lower parts of the legs. You may be able to treat itching yourself.
How do you feel when your blood sugar is too high?
Symptoms of high blood sugar
- feeling very thirsty.
- peeing a lot.
- feeling weak or tired.
- blurred vision.
- losing weight.
Why do diabetics get so angry?
What’s sometimes called “diabetic rage” can be dangerous, because it may involve behaviors you’re not consciously aware of. When your blood sugar fluctuates, spikes, or drops, it can produce feelings of anger, anxiety, or depression. You may feel like your emotions are out of your control.
What should I avoid while taking metformin?
Other things to avoid while on metformin
corticosteroids, such as prednisone. blood pressure medication, such as amlodipine (Norvasc) anticonvulsants, such as topiramate (Topamax) and zonisamide (Zonegran) oral contraceptives.
How do I get rid of swollen feet?
7 Helpful Ways to Reduce Swollen Feet and Ankles
- Walk it Out.
- Drink Lots of Water.
- Sleep on Your Side.
- Enjoy Some Pool Time.
- Limit Your Salt.
- Wear Compression Socks.
- Elevate Your Feet.
Should diabetics wear socks to bed?
Consider socks made specifically for patients living with diabetes. These socks have extra cushioning, do not have elastic tops, are higher than the ankle and are made from fibers that wick moisture away from the skin. Wear socks to bed. If your feet get cold at night, wear socks.
Why can’t diabetics cut toenails?
Myth: People with diabetes can’t cut their own toenails
Don’t cut them straight across, curved down the sides, or too short. Remember, your nails are there to protect your toes.
How do you fix diabetic feet?
Fortunately, a little TLC goes a long way in preventing foot problems from diabetes.
- Check both feet daily.
- Wash with warm — not hot — water.
- Make sure your shoes fit well.
- Skip the barefoot look.
- Speak up.
- Stay soft, but dry.
- Try non-impact exercise.
- Fix bunions, corns, and hammertoes.