Keeping your diabetes in check is an everyday struggle. In my case I have stuck to my diet and kept my A1C between 5.0-5-3 in the last three years. This goes a long way to keep my foot issues to a minimum. Diabetes has it’s own agenda though.
Neuropathy in your feet is a common permanent side effect after all the operations I’ve had. The amputations of a few toes on each foot has done permanent nerve damage. You can bang your foot sleeping or at work and not even feel it. I’ve had a few days like that . One day I came home and my right foot was severely swollen. My toes were huge and I panicked. I called my foot doctor and was able to see him. I arrived to his office and he looked at the foot and told me to get an x-ray. He said it could be gout. Fortunately it wasn’t. I was put on a antibiotic as a precaution. A week later, all was well. The thought of possibly having gout is nerve racking. It would be another diet change with other medical concerns. I have little feeling in my right foot, but if gout worsens it can cause a constant pain. I dodged a bullet.
My other setback was more severe. My right foot was swollen and red. It was an infection and also required antibiotics. I was told by my foot doctor that my middle toe may have to be amputated . After the four operations and amputations I had I wasn’t looking forward to a possible operation and more rehab. There is the slight twinge from the stitches, and the changing of the dressing a few times a day. The antibiotics helped, and propping your foot up on two pillows helps take the swelling down. These are two examples of what can happen to you . Be very careful and also call your doctor if you see something or have any pain.
My next blog will deal with anxiety from setbacks with my eye issues. Stay healthy and safe!
Living with Diabetes 