​Blepharitis

Diabetes describes a group of metabolic diseases where those affected suffer from high blood glucose (blood sugar). Diabetes may be caused by inadequate insulin production or because of the body cells failing to respond appropriately to insulin. 

Diabetes can make you more vulnerable to infections, which can lead to major health complications. Foot infections are a major cause of ailment for patients with diabetes. If left untreated for too long, there is an increased risk amputation. The two main diabetes-related feet problems are:

• Diabetic neuropathy – If your diabetes is not managed properly and you suffer from chronically high blood sugar levels, it can lead to extensive damage to​ your nerves. If the nerves in your feet and legs are impacted, you may suffer from “sensory diabetic neuropathy”; you may be unable to feel temperature (heat or coldness) or pain.  There is the risk that if you get a cut on your foot, you may not feel it due to neuropathy. This cut could get worse and become infected.  Additionally, the functioning of the muscles in your foot may also be negatively impacted due to damage to the nerves that make them work. This could lead to a case where your foot will not align properly, creating excess pressure on the other foot. You are also at an increased risk of getting a foot ulcer, due to nerve damage, or due to peripheral vascular disease.
  

• Peripheral vascular disease – The disease is a circulation disorder which can result in inadequate blood flow to your arms and legs. If you suffer from compromised blood flow, it will mean that cuts and sores will take longer to heal than normal. If you develop an infection that does not heal in a timely manner due to low blood flow, it puts you at greater risk of developing ulcers or gangrene (this refers to the death of tissue as a result of a lack of blood).

Additionally, people with diabetes are at greater risk of developing other feet related problems, such as:

• Athlete’s foot 
  

• Fungal nail infections 
  

• Calluses 
  

• Blisters
  

• Bunions
  

• Dry skin
  

• Foot ulcers
  

• Hammertoes​
  

• Ingrown toenails
  

• Plantar warts

There is increased risk of developing infection, and in serious cases may even lead to a necessary amputation. 

When to seek expert advise

It is absolutely essential that you visit your doctor working with the <GI and Surgery Service Line> at The Aga Khan University Hospital as soon as possible if you have a foot injury or are experiencing any adverse feet-related symptoms. The complications of feet problems can be very serious when you are a diabetic patient. 

You should also seek medical attention urgently if you notice any signs of new ulcer development. The Aga Khan University Hospital's <GI and Surgery> team can help in the diagnosis and treatment of your ailment. ​

Imagery