Do you develop leg ulcers if you have diabetes? (Diabetic Ulcer) Let's find out exactly what this is!

One of the biggest problems for many people with diabetes is that even small wounds do not heal quickly. Especially wounds on the legs and toes can sometimes be a big problem. Imagine, what if a small scratch, or a small wound stuck in a shoe, does not heal for months? So why does this happen? Today we will talk specifically about these diabetic wounds, that is, diabetic ulcers .

What are diabetic ulcers?

Simply put, diabetic ulcers are open wounds on your skin that don't heal normally. In someone without diabetes, a small wound will heal in a few days. But in someone with diabetes, this doesn't happen. These wounds are most likely to occur on the legs and feet . But they can sometimes appear on the hands, or in places like the creases of the skin on the stomach.

Why do people with diabetes get these wounds?

There are several main reasons for this.

1. High blood sugar levels: The main symptom of diabetes is uncontrolled high blood sugar levels. When blood sugar levels remain high for a long time, it damages our nerves and blood vessels.

2. Poor blood circulation: When blood vessels are damaged, blood flow is reduced, especially to the limbs. For a wound to heal, it needs to be well-supplied with blood. Blood is what provides the oxygen and nutrients needed for the wound to heal. When blood flow is reduced, the wound will heal much more slowly.

3. Neuropathy: This is the most dangerous thing. When nerves are damaged, our sensation decreases. Especially the sensation in the feet is lost. Then, even if a small stone gets stuck in your foot or your shoe gets stuck and causes an injury, you won't feel it. Because of this ignorance, you can remain unaware of a small injury until it turns into a big ulcer.

4. Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD): This is another condition that occurs with diabetes. It also causes reduced blood supply to the legs.

These wounds are dangerous because they are more likely to become infected if they do not heal properly. If the infection worsens, the tissue can die, which is called gangrene . In some severe cases, if the infection cannot be controlled, the part may even have to be surgically removed, which is called amputation . But don't worry, these things can be completely prevented if they are identified early and treated properly.

What are the chances of these injuries?

Doctors classify these diabetic wounds according to their severity. One method used for this is the Wagner classification. Let's see how that works.

How to recognize the symptoms of a diabetic wound?

There are some signs that show up as a wound begins to develop. Recognizing these early can help prevent it from becoming a bigger problem.

When a wound starts to develop...

• Cracked or dry skin
• Redness in one spot
• Peeling of the skin
• Rashes
• Feeling hotter or colder than usual

When the injury is serious...

• Thickening of the skin around the wound (Calloused)
• Pus-like fluid draining from the wound (this is a clear sign of infection)
• Change in skin color around the wound (turning black or blue)
• A bad odor coming from the wound
• Sometimes even the bone is visible from inside the wound.

If you notice any of these symptoms, see your doctor without delay .

How are these wounds treated?

If you have a wound, it's important to get it treated as soon as possible. The longer it takes for the wound to heal, the more likely it is to become infected. Your doctor may recommend these treatments.

• Controlling blood sugar levels: This is number one. Only if blood sugar levels are well controlled can the body heal wounds.
• Keeping the wound clean and dressing: Wash the wound with soap and water daily as your doctor recommends. Never use anything like hydrogen peroxide. Also, do not soak the wound in water. Always cover the wound with a clean bandage. The idea that you should "expose" the wound to the air is wrong.
• Offloading the wound: Especially if it's a foot wound, it's best not to put any pressure on it. This means reducing walking, using crutches if necessary, or using special shoes or a brace prescribed by your doctor.
• Debridement: This involves carefully removing dead or infected tissue from a wound to reveal healthy tissue that will help it heal. This is done by a doctor.
• Antibiotics: Only if the wound is infected will the doctor prescribe appropriate antibiotics.

How can you prevent diabetic ulcers?

It's easier to prevent than to treat. If you follow these simple steps, you can greatly reduce your risk.

• Keep your blood sugar levels under control: This is the most important thing. If you are having trouble controlling your blood sugar, talk to your doctor about it.
• Check your feet every day: Make it a habit. Every night before you go to bed, take a good look at your feet. Look between your toes and on the soles of your feet. If you have trouble seeing your soles, use a mirror. Or ask a family member to check them. Pay attention to any changes, such as blisters, cuts, cracks, red spots, or white spots.
• Avoid smoking: Smoking damages blood vessels and reduces blood flow, which further delays wound healing.
• Wear appropriate footwear: Wear comfortable, loose-fitting shoes that cover your feet well. Never walk barefoot , even indoors. A small splinter or stone can lead to a big problem.
• Keep your feet clean and dry: Wash your feet every day, especially between your toes, and keep them dry. If your skin is dry, apply a moisturizer (but not between your toes).

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