Diabetes, Depression, and Diligent Foot Care
Reconstructive Foot and Ankle Institute has proven experience in managing the complications of diabetes. Unfortunately, that experience has taught us that some aspects of the condition are overlooked or neglected.
For this blog post, Dr. Michaels will discuss the depression and lifestyle changes that accompany diabetes in detail. Read on to learn more about how to manage this chronic illness.
Fast Facts and Mental Health
According to Dan Michaels, DPM, “The latest findings reveal a new condition associated with diabetes, a higher incidence of depression, one of the most common mental illnesses.”
- “Adults with diabetes are more likely to report depression than those without. Research seems to indicate it may be up to three times more common in the presence of type 1 diabetes, and twice as likely with type 2.”
- “Generally, depression seems to be the result of a complex interaction of many factors, including psychological, biological, and social.”
- “The latest data shows depression isn’t necessarily a problem with brain chemistry but may be due to an individual’s nerve cell connections.”
Recent research has better defined the role of dietary sugar and our long-term psychological health. Depression is apparently one of the consequences of diabetes and requires a wholly different approach to treatment. Will better control of your blood glucose levels result in a better state of mind? It’s too soon to say; the jury is still out.
Diligent Foot Care Essential for Diabetics
Proper foot care is vital due to the high risk of nerve damage caused by elevated blood sugar levels in diabetics. It’s important to be diligent in foot care to prevent severe health issues.
- According to Dr. Michaels, “The disease affects the blood flow to the feet, lessens their ability to heal, and reduces a patient’s ability to feel their feet. Consequently, someone could step on an object and get injured without even knowing.”
- “Diabetes also weakens the immune system, diminishing the body’s ability to fight infections. These combined factors can cause significant harm, including life-threatening illness or amputations.”
As more information emerges, one constant remains: our team is here and ready to help, with everything from expert footwear recommendations to expertise in the latest wound care technology.
Are you currently struggling with diabetes? Reconstructive Foot & Ankle Institute offers comprehensive podiatric services. Call us at 301-797-8554 or contact us to schedule an appointment. Located in Hagerstown & Frederick, MD, we’re ready to meet any of your foot health needs.
Don’t forget Dr. Michaels’s motto: “If it’s below the knee, think of me!”
