One quick tip for preventing diabetic neuropathy is to maintain healthy glucose levels. In this post, we’ll give you some details on prevention and detection.

What is diabetic neuropathy?

Diabetic neuropathy is a type of nerve damage that affects people who have diabetes. More than half of the people diagnosed with diabetes will develop a form of neuropathy. The three types of neuropathy are peripheral, autonomic, and focal; peripheral neuropathy is the most common and is the leading type that occurs in patients who have diabetes.

I have diabetes. Do I have neuropathy?

If you think you have nerve damage, schedule an appointment with your podiatrist. Symptoms of diabetic neuropathy can typically occur in your hands, legs, or feet.

• Pain
• Tingling
• Burning sensation
• Numbness

What are the concerns with diabetic neuropathy?

For patients with diabetic neuropathy, the severe nerve damage impacts the ability to sense hot or cold — or sharp or dull. This increases the chances for a patient to have a delayed response to a scrape or bruise. Many times, the patient notices after the wound develops into a diabetic ulcer, which can be painful and become infected. Following a neuropathy diagnosis, it is even more important to check your feet regularly.

Can diabetic neuropathy be reversed?

While pain and discomfort can be managed, diabetic neuropathy is a progressive condition that is irreversible.

What are the ways to prevent diabetic neuropathy?

• Monitor and maintain a healthy blood sugar level
• Do not smoke, or stop smoking
• Exercise regularly
• Eat a balanced and healthy diet
• Check your feet daily

Dr. Issam Mansour is a board-certified podiatrist. If you’re in the Livonia area, visit our office to discuss your symptoms. We can help. Request an appointment online or call us at 734-744-5661.

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What is a diabetic foot ulcer?

A diabetic foot ulcer is an open sore or wound, and it typically forms on the bottom of the foot. If treatment is delayed, patients are at an increased risk of infection.

When a person has diabetes, two complications can lead to foot ulcers: neuropathy and poor blood circulation. With neuropathy or nerve damage, patients often miss that they have a scrape or a cut on their foot. This delayed response can allow the cut to worsen over time. For people with poor blood circulation, this impacts the blood flow to the feet, which is key for healing wounds.

What are the symptoms of a diabetic foot ulcer?

An open sore in addition to the following:

• Unpleasant odor
• Swelling
• Drainage (on socks)
• Redness

How do you treat a diabetic ulcer?

The first step of treatment is to begin the healing process. The goal is to reduce the chance of infection. Then, the next step of action is to remove pressure off the ulcer and reduce pain. We may suggest a special footgear, crutches or a wheelchair. We will apply medication and dressings as needed and continue to monitor the wound.

How can I prevent an ulcer from developing?

• Maintain regular appointments with your podiatrist
• Keep a close eye on your blood sugar levels
• Wear supportive and comfortable shoes
• Stop smoking, reduce your cholesterol, and limit your alcohol intake

Dr. Issam Mansour is a board-certified podiatrist. If you call the Livonia area your home and think you have a diabetic ulcer, visit our office to discuss treatment. Don’t delay. Request an appointment online or call us at 734-744-5661.

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If you have questions, we have answers.

What causes an ingrown toenail?

While some ingrown toenail cases are driven by family history, here are the more common causes:

• Injury or trauma to the toenail
• Trimming your toenails too closely
• Wearing shoes that are too tight around your toes
• Running frequently
• Wearing stockings that are too tight

What are the symptoms?

In addition to noticing that the skin around your toenail is growing over the edge of your nail, you may also see slight swelling. This can be a sign of infection. Ingrown toenails are surrounded by your moist, warm skin, which can be a welcoming environment for bacteria. If you see symptoms of infection, don’t delay treatment. Schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.

Can ingrown toenails be treated?

Yes. If the toenail is not infected, we recommend soaking your feet in warm soapy water or saltwater. Then, dry your feet, apply an antiseptic treatment, and bandage your toe.

If your toenail is infected, you will notice swelling, redness, pain, and possibly discharge. To prevent the infection from worsening, consult with a podiatrist on your next steps. Treatment options include trimming the infected toenail or removing it through a minor procedure that can take place right in the office.

What can I do to prevent an ingrown toenail?

• Keep your feet covered to avoid injuries to your feet
• Trim your nails straight across
• Wear shoes that allow wiggle room for your toes

Dr. Issam Mansour is a board-certified podiatrist, and he and his team serve the Livonia area. If you’re ready to walk without pain in your toes, request an appointment online or call us at 734-744-5661.

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