Diabetes: what to be aware of

Amputations are on the increase due to diabetes.

A significant number of Blesma Members living with limb loss have diabetes, and this was either the primary cause or a major factor in them having amputation surgery.

A recent study highlighted that the large numbers of military personnel becoming amputees through conflict or other military activity is massively outweighed by the number of veterans who have amputations due to conditions such as diabetes. Statistically however, veterans were at no more risk than the rest of the population matched for age, gender and geographic area.

So what can Members do to help reduce the impact of the disease and assist with self-management and care?

Firstly, it is important to discuss any concerns you might have with your GP and other healthcare providers. The following information is generic and does not replace professional medical advice and support.

About Diabetes
Diabetes is the result of too much glucose in the blood, either because the body cannot produce the insulin needed to regulate blood sugar (Type 1), or because the body becomes resistant to insulin (Type 2).

It is estimated that more than 4.7 million people in the UK now have diabetes, and the number of diagnoses has doubled over the last 20 years. If not managed well, diabetes can lead to complications including amputation, sight loss, kidney failure, stroke, heart disease and death.

Every week there are 140-170 amputations, 680 strokes and 530 heart attacks as a result of diabetes in the UK. Many of these are avoidable.

(GIRFT; Getting It Right First Time Programme National Speciality Report – Diabetes, Rayman Karr Nov 2020)

Top tips for handling Diabetes

- If you smoke, Stop.

Of course, this isn’t as simple as it sounds, but there is a lot of support out there to help you quit. Your GP or local pharmacy can help.

- Keep Active and eat a healthy diet

Get support from a dietician so you know what to eat and how food affects you. Always get advice from a healthcare professional before starting anything new.

- Monitor your health

Keep an eye on your blood sugars, cholesterol and blood pressure – regular checks and monitoring to keep within safe limits can help prevent further damage. Getting the correct medical and nutritional advice is important. Accessing support groups and helplines can be useful to help you manage your diabetes.

- Check your feet every day

Get into the habit of checking your feet, or get someone else to check them for you. Spotting problems early is vital, and seek medical help as soon as you notice a problem.

- Take care when cutting toenails

This simple activity may seem harmless enough, but if you have diabetes, piercing the skin can be dangerous and can lead to other injuries; and you might not even know you have done it.

- Wear footwear that fits well

Wearing footwear that rubs, is too tight or too loose can lead to problems. You may not realise that damage to the skin is being done and this can be dangerous. Seek advice on suitable footwear if necessary. Buy shoes that:
are broad fitting, have a deep and rounded toe area, are flat or low heeled and are fastened by a lace or buckle to stop your feet sliding

- When you cut your toenails...

Cut them often but not too short or down the side.

Trim them with nail clippers and then use an emery board to file any corners.

Clean them gently with a nail brush – don’t use the sharp points of scissors to clean as this isn’t safe.

Washing daily is also a simple way to keep your feet and toenails clean and safe from infection. A simple mix of soap and warm water will do, but always check the temperature before you put your feet in.

Be careful not to soak your feet as this just makes the skin soggy and more likely to get damaged. If you’ve lost some sensation in your feet, or if you’re worried about things like ingrown toenails, see a foot specialist – they’re used to helping with these things.

- Use moisturizing cream every day

Using emollient cream will keep your skin healthy – combine this with checking your feet daily. It’s best to talk to your healthcare team about which emollient cream is right for you. Don’t put cream between your toes as this can cause problems. The same goes for talcum powder which can cause excessive dryness between the toes.

- Avoid blades and corn plasters 

Trying to deal with corns or other foot issues on your own can put you at risk. Always seek the advice and support of a specialist. It is a good idea to speak to a podiatrist.

- A trained professional should check your bare feet once a year 

But don’t wait a whole year if you notice a problem – seek medical advice as soon as you can.

- Keep a list of useful numbers handy

Make a note of contact numbers for your GP surgery, podiatrist or healthcare providers, as well as your BSO and the Diabetes UK helpline (0345 123 2399).

Diabetes UK has a range of advice and information on its website (www.diabetes.org.uk). If you don’t have access to the internet contact your BSO who will be able to talk you through what options are available.

For more on managing diabetes call Diabetes UK or visit its website. If you have any concerns about your health then speak to your GP as soon as you can.