Diabetes: Treating Minor Foot Infections
Diabetes: Treating Minor Foot Infections
Diabetes makes it harder for the body to heal. Even minor problems, like a blister, can become infected. If not treated, infections can spread and damage nearby tissues. A hospital stay is then needed to treat it. Serious infections can result in amputations. Prompt treatment by your doctor can help clear up infections and restore your health.
Get Treatment:
If your doctor finds a minor infection, you’ll be started on a treatment program. The goal is to heal the infected area while keeping the infection from spreading.
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Your healthcare provider will examine and clean the infected area.
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You may be given antibiotics to fight the infection. Take your antibiotic according to the instructions on the bottle. Take all the medications you are prescribed, even if the sore begins to look better. If you don’t, the infection will not go away and may spread.
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You may be asked to keep the infected area dry.
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In certain cases, you may be told to keep your feet elevated or to limit walking.
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Follow any instructions you are given regarding changing bandages or soaking your foot.
Follow-up Visits
Even with antibiotics and other treatments, a foot infection may take a long time to heal. For best results, be sure to keep all your follow-up appointments. These help ensure complete treatment. They also allow your healthcare provider to make sure you’re healing properly.
When to Call Your DoctorWith diabetes, problems with the feet can easily lead to an infection. Get your doctor’s advice if you have any of the following at any time:
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