Hot Weather Tips for Diabetics
At Goldsmith Podiatry, our Manhattan patients with diabetes know they need to take extra special care of their feet, and summer presents its own set of challenges. Diabetes can result in peripheral neuropathy or nerve damage which can decrease sensation in the feet. Other nerves that are responsible for oil secretion to keep skin moist may also diminish. Soaring summer temperatures may amplify some of these issues. Below are some tips to protect your diabetic feet this season.
Don’t go barefoot—it’s tempting in summer to kick off your shoes, but even a few minutes without them can result in debilitating damage. A quick trip down the driveway to get your newspaper, for example, can burn the soles of your feet from the hot asphalt or lead to a cut or puncture wound from a sharp pebble.
Save your flip-flops for the pool—these popular summer shoes are great for keeping your feet covered in public places to prevent coming in contact with fungal infections that spread by direct contact. However, everyday wear makes feet vulnerable to cuts and injuries due to the complete lack of structure and support. Flip-flops can also lead to very dry skin on your feet because they completely expose your feet to the sun and other elements. Any sandal may increase the risk of dry skin. Be sure to moisturize nightly and alternate open shoe styles with closed ones that you wear with socks.
Watch for swelling—some patients with diabetes experience increased swelling in the heat. It can then cause your shoes to be tight and cause blisters. Although it may seem uncomfortable in the heat, recommending compression socks and stockings may keep swelling in check.
Inspect feet daily—this should be the norm year-round, but it bears repeating look your feet over thoroughly every day. If you notice any cuts or blisters, rashes, swelling, bruises, or other unusual symptoms, don’t wait. Contact our Upper West Side office by calling 212-877-1002 so that our podiatrists, Dr. Howard Goldsmith and Dr. Rosanna Troia can examine your feet and treat any developing problems promptly before complications occur.