minor injury because the high blood glucose impairs the white cells’ ability to correct the problem. Left untreated, infections can be life threatening. Diabetic foot ulcers are crater-like depressions caused by neuropathy, poor circulation, or both. If bacteria are present, infection can develop. When not treated properly, such ulcers can lead to diabetic gangrene or death of the tissue. In gangrene, the tissue is black, and this alone should cause immediate concern. The black tissue can be dry or wet and must be given immediate attention. Many times, amputation is necessary when gangrene is present. All bruises, scratches, nicks, abrasions, cuts, swelling, or any change in the condition of diabetic’s feet must be taken seriously. This does not mean they should panic over one scratch on the foot, but not to take it lightly either. Wash the scratch with a mild antibacterial soap and apply an antibacterial ointment such as bacitracin. Then watch that this scratch heals properly and does not become infected. Some people might be tempted to soak their feet in warm water, maybe even with Epsom salts, to soothe their feet or get rid of dead skin. But soaking actually dries out the skin, which then leads to cracking and peeling. That opens the door to bacteria and infections. In addition to nerves, diabetes affects blood vessels. It is among the top four risk factors for premature hardening of the arteries, or atherosclerosis and arteriosclerosis. Cigarette smoking decreases peripheral vascular blood flow (circulation in the extremities). Diabetes also peripheral vascular blood flow. Diabetics are particularly prone to this narrowing of the arteries in the legs and feet. If they have poor circulation they may notice a lack of hair growth on the tops of their feet and nails may look deformed and unhealthy. Neuropathy can also affect sexual functioning. Until now it was thought that sexual dysfunction was only limited to men, but it...
