Foot Ulceration Symptoms & Care

Foot ulcerations are foot wounds or open sores, and are common among diabetics. The cause of foot ulcerations is peripheral vascular disease.

What happens is that since diabetics have poor blood circulation which causes them to be unable to feel if sores are present. Untreated wounds or sores eventually turn into foot ulcers. 

Foot ulcers can prompt infections of the bloodstream which can lead to amputation or death.
The consequences are severe if left untreated. Diabetics need to inspect their feet and ankles frequently to monitor any changes that may appear and seek treatment right away.

Symptoms of foot ulcers:

•             Irritation of the skin such as blistering and redness

•             Open wounds that drain fluid

•             Infection, swelling or pus

•             High blood sugar levels

•             Odor

•             Fever

•             Pain

•             Discoloration of the foot; look for white, blue or black spots

If a diabetic does have a wound or sore, proper would care and dressing is vital. Care for would by:

• Keep blood sugar levels under control.

• Keep the ulcer clean and bandaged.

• Clean the wound daily, using a wound dressing or bandage.

• Keep pressure off of the foot by walking less until the wound is healed.

• Always wear shoes. Never go barefoot.

Medline Plus. Diabetes - foot ulcers. (2011). Retrieved from http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/patientinstructions/000077.htm