Skin and Foot Care Tips
If you have diabetes, it's important to be aware of potentially serious skin problems that may arise and see your doctor before the problem gets out of control. In fact, as many as one third of people with diabetes live with or experience a skin disorder caused or affected by diabetes at some time in their lives.1 For this reason, it is important to understand the effects that diabetes can have on your body so that you know how to treat and even avoid these associated issues.
Skin Care1
Follow the steps below to help you avoid/treat skin problems associated with diabetes. Remember to see a dermatologist (skin doctor) about your skin problems if you are not able to solve them yourself.1
- Keep skin clean and dry. Use talcum powder in areas where skin touches skin, such as armpits1
- Avoid very hot baths and showers. If your skin is dry, don't take bubble baths. Moisturizing soaps may help1
- Moisturize your skin overall to prevent chapping, especially in cold or windy weather. Use a standard skin lotion, but don't put lotions between toes. The extra moisture there can encourage fungus to grow1
- Treat cuts right away. Wash minor cuts with soap and water. Do not use Mercurochrome antiseptic, alcohol, or iodine to clean skin because they are too harsh1
- During cold, dry months, keep your home more humid. Try purchasing a humidifier, which will add moisture into the air1
- Use mild shampoos to avoid scalp irritation1
According to the , African Americans are 1.6 times more likely to have diabetes as non-Hispanic whites.
Foot Care
When you have diabetes it's important to understand the connection between diabetes and foot care. As a person with diabetes, you are more vulnerable to foot problems2 because diabetes commonly causes poor blood flow and nerve damage in the lower legs and feet. This may lead to infections that can turn into serious problems, including amputation.3 The American Diabetes Association estimates that one in five people with diabetes who seek hospital care do so for foot problems.2 In order to help prevent these types of problems, make sure to inspect your feet every day and see your doctor if you get a foot injury. Remember to have someone else look at your feet if you cannot see them.2 You should plan to see your doctor at least once a year to get your feet checked.4
Below are some steps you can take to help avoid foot problems and care for your feet4:
- Check your feet for red spots, cuts, swelling, and blisters on a daily basis; use a mirror if you need assistance
- Be more active. Plan your physical activity program with your health team
- Ask your doctor about Medicare coverage for special shoes
- Wash your feet every day. Dry them carefully, especially between the toes
- Wear shoes and socks at all times. Never walk barefoot
- Protect your feet from hot and cold. Wear shoes at the beach or on hot pavement. Don't put your feet into hot water
- Keep the blood flowing to your feet. Put your feet up when sitting. If you are sitting, wiggle your toes and move your ankles up and down periodically every hour throughout the day
By taking proper care of your feet, most serious health problems associated with diabetes can be prevented.2
References:
- American Diabetes Association. “Skin Care.”. Last accessed June 7, 2010.
- WebMD. “Diabetes Foot Care.”. Last accessed June 7, 2010.
- American Diabetes Association. “Your Health Care Team.”. Last accessed June 7, 2010.
- American Diabetes Association. “Foot Care.”. Last accessed June 7, 2010.