How to reduce swelling in diabetic foot

Written by Li Hui Zhi
Endocrinology
Updated on September 17, 2024
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How to reduce swelling in diabetic foot depends on the condition of the swelling. If the swelling is due to a wound on the diabetic foot causing localized redness and swelling, this condition needs anti-infective treatment. It is recommended to culture the wound secretion and choose a sensitive antibiotic; if the swelling is diffuse in the foot, it is also recommended to perform an ultrasound of the lower limb vessels, including arteries and veins. If this indicates poor venous return in the lower limbs or venous thrombosis, treatment to prevent thrombosis and improve venous return should also be added.

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Written by Lin Xiang Dong
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Diabetic foot ulcer precursor

Diabetic foot, as we discuss in medical terms, refers to patients with a history of diabetes who, due to poor blood sugar control, experience various complications such as the narrowing of arteries in the lower limbs, insufficient blood and oxygen supply, and neuropathy, which results in insensitivity to temperature and pain, making them prone to burns or other injuries. Additionally, diabetic patients have compromised immune systems, making them susceptible to infections. When these three factors combine, it easily leads to diabetic foot, which is also the precursor to what is colloquially known as "rotten foot" in diabetes.

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Care of diabetic foot

The care of diabetic foot is very important. In our daily life, we need to do the following aspects. First, regularly wash and check both feet. During washing, the water temperature should not be too high. Also, keep the skin moist to prevent it from drying and cracking. Second, choose suitable shoes and socks, preferably loose-fitting to avoid tightness. Third, be careful when trimming toenails, making sure not to damage the skin of the feet. If there are any sores, go to the hospital immediately for treatment. Fourth, avoid using corrosive chemicals on the feet.

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Written by Li Hui Zhi
Endocrinology
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Type 2 diabetes daily diet

Type II diabetes requires careful daily dietary considerations. First, meals should be regular and moderate in portion; overeating is to be avoided. Second, ideally consume only three meals a day and avoid late-night snacks, which is a habit that many people have but is inadvisable. Third, the amount of carbohydrates per meal should be controlled; about 100 grams of staple food per meal is sufficient for those who perform moderate physical labor and do not engage in heavy physical activities. Fourth, sweet foods like pastries and cakes, which are high in sugar, should be completely avoided. Fifth, foods like porridge and glutinous rice, which have a high glycemic index, are not recommended. Lastly, very sweet fruits such as lychees, longans, durians, grapes, and bananas are too sugary and not suitable for consumption.

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Written by Yang Li
Endocrinology
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Care for diabetic foot

The first fundamental step is monitoring blood glucose; good control of blood glucose levels is essential for the effective management of diabetic foot problems. Secondly, attention must be paid to the protection of the wound. It's crucial to keep the wound clean, perform regular cleaning and disinfection, and when necessary, debride necrotic tissue thoroughly. For instance, if there is a sinus tract or deep ulceration, it is essential to open the wound and ensure drainage, removing all necrotic tissue inside. Thirdly, footwear choice is critical for patients with diabetic foot; it is important to wear shoes that are loose fitting, moderately soft yet firm, and capable of evenly distributing pressure across the footbed. There are shoes specially designed for those with diabetic foot, and these can be custom-made. Other considerations include maintaining good blood pressure control and ensuring adequate nutrition to support wound healing, including sufficient protein intake, which plays a vital role in promoting wound repair.

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Written by Li Hui Zhi
Endocrinology
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Early symptoms of type 2 diabetes

The typical symptoms of type 2 diabetes are referred to as "three excesses and one deficiency." The three excesses include excessive thirst and dry mouth, increased appetite with frequent hunger, and increased urination. The one deficiency refers to weight loss; these are the more typical symptoms. Some patients might often find out about their elevated blood sugar during routine health checks at work. Others may seek medical advice due to issues like skin itchiness or wounds that heal poorly after injury. Some might mainly experience numbness in their hands and feet, or blurred vision among other symptoms.