"Don't lose a foot because of a toenail"  That was the comment from my pharmacist when I showed up with a prescription for antibiotics.  All because of an ingrown toenail.

My doctor at our local foot and ankle clinic agreed wholeheartedly.  As a diabetic, even something as minor as a scratch or cut can be dangerous.  An ingrown toenail with an infection was serious.

A few days earlier, I had noticed a bit of pain and redness on the side of the toenail on my big toe.  When I called the office of our podiatrist, saying the words "diabetic" and "foot problem" in the same sentence got immediate attention.  I was given an appointment for the following morning.

Over the next three weeks, I had three separate procedures to remove part of the toenail and the infection around it.  And plenty of antibiotics.  I was fortunate that it was caught in time, but so many other diabetics ignore their feet and suffer disastrous problems from losing a toe to gangrene that can mean the amputation of a foot or even a leg.

If you or someone you care for is diabetic, remember that daily foot care is essential.  Don't neglect it.  And if you have poor eyesight, get a family member to help you.

MEDICARE

If you are diabetic and on Medicare, you can see a podiatrist every 4 months to have your feet checked and your toenails trimmed by a professional.  Medicare will also cover 89% of approved diabetic shoes that are custom fit.  The shoes come with 3 pair of additional inserts so you can change them every 4 months.  NOTE:  You will need a signed order from your regular doctor for the shoes.  Your podiatrist will usually have a form letter you can take to your regular doctor for their signature.

Your podiatrist will also do periodic nerve tests for peripheral neuropathy in your feet.  This tests can show the earliest signs of nerve damage, long before you notice any loss of sensation.  Starting medication early for this condition, and controlling your blood sugar, can prevent major damage and loss of a limb.

EMERGENCY SITUATIONS

Call your doctor or health care provider IMMEDIATELY for any of the following conditions:

=  Redness with streaks, or color changes in your feet

+ A blister or sore on your foot

+ Severe or increasing foot pain

+ A burning sensation that gets worse

+ Increased welling in your feet

+ Drainage on your socks.

FOOT CARE GUIDELINES

Check these links for information on daily foot care.

American Diabetes Association http://www.diabetes.org/type-2-diabetes/foot-care.jsp

FootPhyscians.com http://www.footphysicians.com/footankleinfo/diabetic-guidelines.htm

Take care,

Kathy F