How is Diabetic Foot Diagnosed and Treatment Given
August 24, 2009
Diabetic foot is one of the common complications of a person suffering from diabetes. Diabetic foot and setting in of infection and gangrene is found mostly in cases where there is reduced sensation with normal blood circulation in the foot or when there is reduced sensation and reduced circulation in the foot.
The first step is to diagnose diabetic foot before one treats it. The first step to think over while diagnosing diabetic foot is to first think over the duration of the disease. The longer the duration the higher the risk of diabetic foot. It is best to periodically take readings of the fasting and post lunch blood sugar readings as well as the glycosylated haemoglobin reading and note if they are not abnormally high.
Next it is necessary to note for any abnormalities in the toes and foot and check if the person has sensitivity. Checking sensitivity by touching the patient’s feet with a cotton swab with his eyes closed could be able to indicate diabetic foot. The temperature and pulse in the foot is checked; a cold foot with less or no pulses indicates diabetic foot and the treatment plan is to be worked out.
The journey to treat diabetic foot starts with the first step of controlling high cholesterol, uric acid and homocysteine. It is also necessary to ascertain if the diabetic has retinopathy, neuropathy, and ischemic heart disease. Tests have also to be carried out regarding the culture of the organisms causing the infection and an appropriate dressing and antibiotic treatment started.
The next in the treatment of diabetic foot involves finding out the arteries that have actually been blocked. A dye may be inserted in the kidney to identify limb angiography. Blood thinners like aspirin, and cholesterol lowering drugs may have to be given. Besides haemorrheological agents and disease reversing agents may have to be given under the physicians guidance. Angioplasty, stenting or a bypass has to be carried out to help the circulation to improve.
Finally cutting of the infected tissue and draining off of the excess pus and abscess helps to remedy the situation of diabetic foot faster. To conclude be prompt in telling your physician of any abnormal developments on one’s foot and help your physician to diagnose and treat diabetic foot promptly.
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