Diabetes and Dry Cracked Skin

Image via WikipediaDo you find it annoyingly painful to walk due to dry cracked skin on the heels of your feet? Have you tried lotions and potions, yet still have a difficult time treating this condition? We are here today to offer some practical suggestions to try to help you make things a bit more tolerable.

Dry cracked skin is usually most problematic during the winter months. Thickening and drying of the skin occurs, and deep cracks can appear, which makes it painful to even walk. For some, dry cracked heels are a mere cosmetic annoyance, but for a person with diabetes, it can pose a greater problem and health risks. What causes dry cracked skin?

    •    Age

    •    Existing skin conditions like psoriasis

    •    Diabetes

    •    Thyroid problems

    •    Vitamin deficiencies

    •    Excess weight

As we age, the skin loses its normal elasticity. Skin conditions caused by medical disorders can contribute to dryness and weight bearing can become problematic, especially if we stand for long periods of time and the skin is under excessive stress.  Any combination of these conditions can increase the likelihood of dry cracked skin.

Symptoms of dry cracked skin include discoloration (yellowish) and thickening of the skin. If it goes untreated, the skin can crack and bleed. Deepening cracks can harbor infections. People with diabetes should check their feet regularly, because they may have decreasing sensation in their feet due to nerve damage.

    •    Bathe feet daily, test for proper temperature and dry thoroughly.

    •    Apply vitamin enriched moisturizers to the feet, but not between toes.

    •    Use a pumice stone to remove dry and calloused skin.

    •    Wear shoes and socks to protect feet. Check them for small objects that could cause injury.

    •    Check your feet daily for sores. People with diabetes are at greater risk for infection.

For the person living with diabetes, proper foot care is essential. Have regular medical checkups, and do not be bashful about exposing your toes. Still, tell your doctor immediately if you have a concern about your feet. Some doctors may prescribe orthotics to help relieve pressure on problem areas. Follow their instructions closely. If you implement a sound plan of prevention, you should make it through the winter with fewer problems, but if you have a problem, call East Penn Foot & Ankle Associates for an appointment.

So what’s worked well for your feet and dry skin? We’d like to know so comment below!

References: 

www.footsmart.com/healthcondition.aspx?ailmentid=83
http://diabetes.niddk.nih.gov/dm/pubs/complications_feet/#hurtfeet

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Diabetes – Harsh Climate Protection

Image via WikipediaPatients who suffer Type I or Type II Diabetes are at greater risk during the cold winter months. This is because they deal with the loss of feeling in their feet, as a result of nerve damage. Therefore, it is necessary that Diabetic patients use extra care to avoid lengthy exposure to the elements, especially during the winter months. Excessive exposure could cause frostbite, damaging skin and other cells.

When it is necessary to be outside, try to plan ahead. A common sense approach and a few items can be very helpful. Move around to stimulate circulation. Take more regular breaks to get inside out of the cold. Make sure your foot wear fits appropriately, is non-restrictive and allows enough room for an extra pair of socks. Keep an extra pair or two of warm, dry socks with you, in case your feet get damp or perspire. Make sure your outer footwear is waterproof, and replace inadequate shoes and boots as soon as possible. If you travel, allow for periodic rest stops to get out and get moving. This will allow for better circulation. Also, it is a good plan to pack along a blanket. Keep the blanket in the automobile passenger compartment with you, not in the trunk.

If you suspect that prolonged exposure to cold, snow, wind or sleet may have caused skin damage or frostbite, use caution and warm up slowly. The affected area should not be rubbed or massaged. This could cause further damage. Instead, wrap in a blanket and allow for gradual re-warming, allowing circulation to slowly improve.

If you are Diabetic and suspect over-exposure, it is recommended that you seek the advice of your foot-care specialist. The freezing of the skin or other tissue could have serious health consequences. Your doctor can advise you.

If you have any questions concerning diabetes and the affects it causes to the feet, contact Dr. Teichman at East Penn Foot & Ankle Associates on our website.

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