What are the 5 Stages of Diabetic Foot Ulcer?

Diabetic foot ulcers are a serious complication of diabetes, affecting millions around the globe. These ulcers develop due to nerve damage and poor circulation in the feet, often starting as a small break in the skin and potentially progressing to life-threatening situations. Early diabetic ulcer on leg detection and intervention are crucial to prevent complications like infection and gangrene.

What is a diabetic foot ulcer?

Open sores known as diabetic foot ulcers usually develop on the plantar surface, or bottom, of the foot. They may resemble tiny, round, red crater-like structures with thick callused skin surrounding it. This condition usually occurs when the blood glucose levels stay extremely high for a long period. Over time, it affects the blood circulation to the feet which eventually increases the risk of diabetic foot ulcers. 

What are the symptoms of diabetic foot ulcer?

Diabetic foot ulcer is a condition that requires immediate medical attention. Look out for early signs for early treatment. Here are the few early symptoms of diabetic foot ulcers:

• Warm feeling under the foot
• Redness under the foot
• Foul smell from the foot
• Visible skin discoloration
• Swelling of the foot
• Sensitive to touch on the specific site 

In case you notice any of these symptoms, reach out to the best treatment for diabetic foot ulcer in Coimbatore to seek timely treatment. 

What are the 5 stages of diabetic foot ulcers?

The diabetic foot ulcer is separated into 5 stages based on the progress, size, length, length, and the area affected. The diabetic foot ulcer stages can include:

Stage 1:

It will be a normal looking foot with no visible changes. And the doctor may recommend you to wear proper-fitting shoes and maintain healthy hygiene. 

Stage 2:

At this stage your doctor will check for any loss of blood flow or nerve damage that is caused by diabetes. As both of them can cause serious complications. In case you have any calluses then it is removed through a procedure called debridement. 

Stage 3:

Once you enter this stage, then your doctor may advise you to avoid putting excess pressure on the affected area. So you may be required to be under bed rest and proper care needs to be taken in this stage to avoid infection on foot from diabetes. 

Stage 4:

Usually hospitalization is recommended at this stage. A sample from the ulcer is taken for further examination. This step helps in determining the treatment option including the right medication and ointment. At this stage, surgery may be performed to drain the ulcer and remove the affected area to control the infection spread.

Stage 5:

In this stage you may notice dead skin as blood circulation is cut off. This stage usually involves hospital stay at a hospital, extensive treatment, and at times surgery may also be recommended. These are the major five stages of diabetic foot ulcer, and in case treatment is received at the right time then amputation may be required. As the infection is severe and blood circulation may not be restored to the affected area. 

When should you see a doctor for diabetic foot ulcers?

In case you are diagnosed with diabetes, it is important that you consult with your doctor as soon as you notice any changes in your foot. Seek immediate medical help in case your foot is showing any signs of pressure ulcer on the foot. You should keep an eye out for any indications that your foot ulcer is getting worse. In case you start noticing any symptoms of an infection, such as fever, increased redness, or pus that is draining, reach out to your doctor. Speak with your doctor to take proper precautions rather than to risk your life quality with a  serious infection, and ultimately needing an amputation.

What are the tips that help in preventing diabetic ulcers?

Since early detection is important for successful treatment and preventing complications, here are some important preventive measures for people with diabetes:

• Daily foot inspection:

Regularly examine your feet for any breaks, redness, swelling, or changes in skin textures. Use a mirror if needed to inspect the soles thoroughly. 

• Proper foot care:

Wash your feet daily with warm water and mild soap, dry them thoroughly, especially between the toes. Moisturize dry skin but avoid applying lotion between the toes. 

• Wear proper footwear:

Choose well-fitting shoes with good support and a wide toe box to accommodate any deformities.

• Maintain good blood sugar control:

High blood sugar levels contribute to nerve damage and circulation problems. Talk to your diabetes specialist to manage blood sugar effectively. 

• Stop smoking:

Smoking significantly reduces blood flow, further increasing the risk of ulcer development. 

Can diabetic foot ulcers be cured completely?

Diabetic foot ulcers unfortunately cannot be cured completely. But they can be prevented from forming by following certain diabetic foot ulcer prevention tips. And in case you develop diabetic foot ulcer you can ensure to take proper care under the guidance of a doctor to prevent the spread of the infection further.

Is diabetic foot ulcer contagious?

Diabetic foot ulcers do not necessarily spread from person to person but diabetic foot ulcers can spread around the foot deepening the infection. Hence seeking timely treatment is important to avoid the spread. 

Important Takeaway:

Finding an open ulcer under your foot can be distressing. If you have diabetic neuropathy you may not even feel it and you may not understand what might have caused it. It is important to understand that doctor can treat diabetic foot ulcers effectively once detected early. Reach out to the general surgery hospital in Coimbatore to seek timely diagnosis and medical treatment.