Tips For Taking Care Of Your Diabetic Foot During The Summer
The best measure to take care of the diabetic foot during the summer is to use appropriate shoes. In addition, hydration and posture are factors that should not be overlooked. In this space, we share other important recommendations.
During the summer, there are certain steps you should take to take care of your diabetic foot. This condition is a clinical complication suffered by people with diabetes mellitus. This complication is the main cause of foot amputation in this population. Its cause, in general, is the increase in glucose levels above normal.
Therefore, once diagnosed with diabetes, it is necessary to make routine adjustments to prevent the development of foot ulcers. This recommendation becomes even more relevant during the summer season, when weather conditions and outdoor activities increase the risks. What should be kept in mind?
Summer and the diabetic foot
First of all, the characteristic symptoms of diabetic foot are decreased sensation in the feet and decreased blood circulation. This alone already presents a number of dangers. However, as we have already mentioned, the risks multiply during the summer.
The increase in ambient temperature causes many people to wear open shoes or walk barefoot for long periods of time. Therefore, the feet are more prone to injury or shock.
As in most cases the sensation in the feet is reduced, injuries may go unnoticed. For this reason, the risk of ulcers or infections forming more easily increases.
How to prevent diabetic foot
People with diabetes should pay special attention to controlling their feet. It is recommended that a study called neuropathic and vasculopathic screening be performed once a year. In patients at risk, this study should be repeated twice a year.
Another recommendation to keep in mind is to observe your feet daily, paying special attention to the big toe and the outer part. In the event of friction, wounds or redness, you must quickly consult a specialist.
At the same time, hygiene must be very meticulous. It is necessary to dry each skin fold well after washing. Trimming the nails should be done very carefully so as not to leave any corners that could injure the skin. After washing and cutting the nails, it is recommended to use specific creams, without applying it between the fingers.
It is advisable to use comfortable and light shoes made of materials that do not produce excessive perspiration; the same goes for socks. All of these tips should be applied throughout the year, but in the summer they will need to be supplemented with other measures.
How to take care of your diabetic foot during the summer
Taking care of your diabetic foot during the summer first involves doing routine check-ups twice a day. Keep in mind that if you wear open shoes, your feet are more prone to heat injuries or blisters.
The insensitivity of the diabetic foot will not produce pain that attracts the attention of the patient. In the case of beach or mountain hikes, you should choose appropriate footwear for these activities ; athletic shoes generally help prevent injury.
It is also advisable to use sunscreen on the top of the foot to prevent sunburn. Likewise, after daily activity, it is still recommended to apply a moisturizer to prevent dryness.
Other maintenance tips
Washing the feet should be done every day. Ideally, do this with warm soapy water and always keep in mind that the skin should be completely dry after washing. Traces of moisture can cause problems.
Maintaining blood circulation is important for taking care of the diabetic foot in the summer. Therefore, it is advisable to keep your feet in the air whether you are sitting or lying down. Likewise, you should move your fingers and ankles and not cross your legs for too long.
Finally, it must be taken into account that the hydration of the body must be more intense during this time of the year. The feet are no exception to this recommendation. The use of a specific cream to moisturize the diabetic foot is recommended to prevent the skin from cracking.
How to take care of the diabetic foot while traveling?
Every trip involves good preparation, especially when you have health issues. To take a vacation and take care of your diabetic foot in the summer, the first thing to do is to pack everything you need : suitable shoes, moisturizer, sunscreen, etc.
Whether you’re traveling by plane, car, train, or bus, don’t sit around for too long. You should get up from your chair and walk for a few minutes, at least once an hour, if you are traveling by plane. In other vehicles, getting up every two hours is sufficient.
If, despite these recommendations, you notice signs of a complication, consult a doctor as soon as possible. The doctor can determine if other specific care or medication is needed.
