Nail Care for People With Diabetes

Diabetes nail care is a very important topic. Many people think that the painted nails are a decoration for our feet and hands. However, nails help protect our toes and fingers from injury.

It is also important to note that the way your nails look also give a pretty good indication of your overall health. People who have diabetes often develop a condition called diabetic neuropathy. This is a condition that reduces the feelings in the toes and fingers.

Effects of Diabetes

If you have diabetes, then you may not know that you have injured your foot until the infection has developed. That is why diabetics are at an increased risk for developing a number of foot problems, including circulation problems that reduce the amount of oxygen and blood that flows to the feet. Cuts, sores and cracks may seem like minor problems. However, these problems can eventually lead to ulcers, which can warrant the need for an amputation.

Fortunately, there are a number of things that diabetics can do to take care of their feet. Below are some essential foot care tips for diabetics:

Most Important Diabetic Nail Care Tip

You want to make sure that you go to your doctor to get your feet checked a couple of times per year. Your primary care doctor will most likely refer you to a podiatrist, a doctor who has been trained to address foot problems.

Another Important Diabetic Nail Care Tip-Check Your Feet Daily

You will need to examine your own feet on a daily basis. Sores, bunions, cracked skin, wounds and cuts are examples of things that you should check for when you look at your feet. You also want to make sure that you look out for swelling and redness because those are signs of inflammation. Furthermore, pay close attention to coolness or warmness. If your feet are warm, then that could be a sign that you are getting ready to develop an infection. Cold feet are a sign of decreased circulation. You should see a doctor if your nails are thick and yellow.

Additional Tips

You should wear appropriate-fitting shoes. If you develop a minor foot problem, then you should see a doctor immediately.  Minor foot problems often develop into more serious ones. It is very important for you to keep your feet clean and dry because you are more prone to developing nail fungus. Additionally, you should trim your nails at least once every six to eight weeks, but avoid cutting them too short.

 How We Can Help

You should contact us at Evergreen Beauty School if you are interested in learning about how to properly care for someone’s nails. Our instructors can teach you about caring for a diabetic’s nails and much more.