If you have been diagnosed with diabetes, then you are at risk of developing foot complications. Diabetes is a condition that decreases your body's ability to produce any or enough insulin. This disease also causes elevated blood sugar levels in your blood.

You must monitor your feet when diagnosed with diabetes. Diabetes patients 20 years or older make up around 60 percent of non-traumatic lower-limb amputations. Here are three foot complications you can develop from this disease.

Foot And Leg Amputation

Diabetes patients are at a higher risk of getting foot or leg amputation because of peripheral arterial disease (PAD). PAD decreases the amount of blood that flows to your feet. Diabetes patients also have problems with nerve disease.

Nerve disease causes you to have decreased sensations in your body. These complications make it easier for you to develop infections and ulcers that can lead to amputation. For these reasons, diabetes patients have to get fitted for artificial limbs. 

If you have to lose your foot, then you have the option of wearing a foot prosthesis. A prosthetic foot is made of a combination of metal and plastic. It is attached to your ankle or calf. You will work with a health care team to find the right prosthesis to fit your lifestyle.

The Development Of Ulcers

Diabetes can cause ulcers to develop on your feet. The ulcers usually occur on the bottom of your big toe or the ball of your foot. Many ulcers do not hurt, but you still need to let your doctor see it. Neglecting your ulcers can result in infections, which leads to losing your foot. It is important to check your feet and legs daily for changes.

Poor Circulation

Poor circulation is a common symptom of diabetes. The disease causes the vessels in your legs and feet to harden and narrow. However, you can control poor circulation. If you are a smoker, then quit smoking. Smoking causes your arteries to harden faster. It also helps to follow your doctor's instructions for keeping your cholesterol and blood pressure under control.

It helps to understand you can live a normal life with diabetes. Your doctor can help you to develop and follow a treatment plan. You can also get this disease under control by eating a healthy diet and with regular exercise. Early detection prevents you from getting your foot or leg amputated. Click here for more information.