Rather than rewrite blogs – here is a
list of blogs that are applicable to foot care and a few of the
problems.
I know people are tired of hearing
about managing diabetes, but as with all complications, the best
solution to prevent complications is keeping blood glucose levels as
near normal as possible. With your feet and lower limbs, this is
extremely important and then, in addition, if you have neuropathy,
daily inspection for sores, cracks, and ulcers becomes a necessity.
Taking care of these early and working with your doctor and possibly
a podiatrist to recommend treatments is wise.
Another problem that is often
overlooked is this. Onychomycosis is a fungal infection of the
fingernails or toenails. The actual infection is of the bed of the
nail and of the plate under the surface of the nail.
Onychomycosis is the most common of all
diseases of the nails in adults. In North America, the incidence
falls roughly between 2-13%. The incidence of onychomycosis is also
greater in older adults, and up to 90% of the elderly may be
affected. Men are more commonly infected than women.
Individuals who are especially
susceptible include those with chronic diseases such as diabetes and
circulatory problems and those with diseases that suppress the immune
system. Other risk factors include a family history, previous trauma
to the nails, warm climate, and occlusive or tight footwear.
Onychomycosis is caused by three types
of fungi, called:
- Dermatophytes
- Yeasts
- Nondermatophyte molds
Fungi are simple parasitic plant
organisms that do not need sunlight to grow. Toenails are especially
susceptible because fungi prefer dark damp places. Swimming pools,
locker rooms, and showers typically harbor fungi. Risk factors
include:
- Chronic diseases such as diabetes
- Problems with the circulatory system
- Immune deficiency disease
- A history of athlete's foot
- Excess perspiration are also risk factors
Onychomycosis can be present for years
without causing pain or disturbing symptoms. Typically, the nail
becomes thicker and changes to a yellowish-brown. Foul smelling
debris may collect under the nail. The infection can spread to the
surrounding nails and even the skin.
To make a diagnosis of onychomycosis,
the doctor must collect a specimen of the nail in which infection is
suspected. A clipping is taken from the nail plate, and a sample of
the debris from underneath the nail bed is also taken, usually with a
sharp curette. Debris from the nail surface may also be taken.
These will be sent for microscopic analysis to a laboratory, as well
as cultured to determine what types of fungus are growing there.
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