Diabetes Mellitus is a serious disease affecting nearly all major systems in the body. The World Diabetes Foundation states that developing countries like South Africa are currently experiencing an ‘explosion’ of the disease due to rapid lifestyle changes. The estimated number of diabetics is about 840,000 but this number is expected to rise over the next twenty five years. Recent studies imply all race groups are susceptible to the disease but the black and Indian communities are at the highest risk of developing the condition.

What is Diabetes?

Diabetes is a serious, incurable disease affecting the pancreas resulting in high blood sugar levels. Type I diabetes is diagnosed in early childhood; the pancreas is unable to secrete insulin. In type II diabetes, the body is resistant to insulin produced and this condition is diagnosed in adulthood. Type II diabetes is also known as a disease of lifestyle as it is strongly linked to obesity, hypertension and high cholesterol.

  • Complications of diabetes:
  • Heart damage
  • Peripheral vascular disease
  • Peripheral neuropathy
  • Eye problems
  • Kidney damage
  • Gangrene
  • Amputation of the lower limbs

How does diabetes affect the foot?

Changes in blood vessels and nerves are the major complication of diabetes in the feet. Peripheral vascular disease is caused by fatty deposits in the blood vessels which narrow the diameter of the vessels. This reduces blood supply to the legs and feet. Diabetes also affects the nerves; reducing their sensitivity. This condition is known as peripheral neuropathy. A diabetic patient with peripheral neuropathy may not notice a small wound or sore caused by a stone in the shoe or tight fitting shoes. If ignored, the wound may become infected and because blood circulation is poor, the area will take longer to heal. This may in time lead to severe infection, gangrene and possible amputation.

What should I do if I am a diabetic?

  • Maintain blood sugar levels  of  3.6 – 7.5 mm/Hg
  • Regular visits to the doctor and podiatrist
  • Proper foot care is essential- look after wounds and notify your podiatrist
  • Inspect your shoes for stones and other debris
  • Proper footwear- ensure your shoes fit well and are not too tight
  • Healthy diet- see a dietician
  • Exercise