How Often Should Diabetics See Their Podiatrist?

One of the most painful symptoms of diabetes is pain and numbness in the feet, which can be diagnosed by a podiatrist. Also referred to as diabetic neuropathy, the pain is a result of nerves impaired by high blood sugar levels. Today Dr. Hubert Lee at CarePlus Foot & Ankle Specialists in Bellevue, WA is sharing information regarding how often patients with diabetes should see their podiatrist.

Patients experience diabetes differently, but those with new symptoms of numbness, tingling, and sharp pains in the feet should report these experiences to their podiatrist. 

When diabetic neuropathy sets in, it can be difficult for patients to return to complete health, so it’s important to take care of the feet and work to improve the condition. Regular visits to the podiatrist can help patients diagnose symptoms.

How important are regular foot examinations? 

There are a number of ways that diabetic neuropathy can manifest in a diabetic patient, so take the time to understand the symptoms completely. Ask your podiatrist about specific symptoms and how to improve your foot health.

Patients with diabetes should see their podiatrist once a year for a comprehensive foot examination. In addition, they should regularly examine the feet for sores, cuts, and blisters that can rapidly lead to infections. 

Diabetic wounds typically heal slower than healthy patients, so a small wound could lead to larger complications if not treated. If a patient feels dizzy, has digestive problems or pain and weakness in the hands, you should schedule an appointment with your podiatrist.

Who’s At a Higher Risk?

Diabetic neuropathy can affect any patient living with diabetes, but there are some factors that make it more likely to occur, including:

• A long history of diabetes;
• General inability to control blood sugar;
• Obesity;
• Smoking habit;
• The presence of kidney disease.

If a patient has any of these conditions, they may want to consider lifestyle management. Making healthier personal and dietary choices can help decrease the chances of developing nerve damage in the legs and feet.

Diabetes comes with a wide variety of potentially harmful and painful symptoms. Patients who visit their podiatrist at least once a year can get a better understanding of foot health and reduce chances of developing neuropathy.

If you are living with diabetes and haven’t seen your podiatrist lately, contact the office of Dr. Hubert Lee at CarePlus Foot & Ankle Specialists in Bellevue, WA today at (425) 455-0936 to schedule a consultation.