Cuts, Scrapes and Diabetes

Everyday injuries can become serious problems if not treated with special care

If you have diabetes, you need to do more than say "ouch!" when you bang your shin on the dishwasher door. With this disease, little injuries can soon become stubborn infections.

"People with diabetes often have poor circulation and lack of sensation in the legs and feet, so they can have a hard time detecting and healing cuts and scrapes," says Ginger Holko, R.N., director of the Wound Healing Center at Lehigh Valley Hospital — Muhlenberg. "This raises their risk of infections and other complications. People with diabetes also have a harder time fighting infection." To minimize your risk, use these preventive-care tips:

Protect your skin. Diabetic skin is often drier, more brittle and more susceptible to cuts, cracks and other breaks. Use moisturizer daily, always wear shoes, drink plenty of water and get adequate protein, vitamins and minerals.

Watch out for sharp corners. Make a mental note of all potential sources of injury in your house, including the dishwasher door and screen door. They're a frequent cause of scraped shins and calves and other small wounds that can become serious.

Avoid hot-water burns. Because diabetic feet may not feel scalding-hot water, always test the temperature with your hand or arm before stepping into the shower or tub.

Prevent pressure sores. If you're in a wheelchair or bed for long periods, talk to your doctor about pressure points — places such as hips, tailbone and heels, where bones put excessive pressure on skin. Use pillows and other pressure-relief devices to prevent sores. Shifting positions every one to two hours is also essential.

Check daily for cuts and scrapes. By the time you feel a cut or other minor wound, it can already be serious. Examine your feet and legs daily. If necessary, use a mirror or ask for help.

Don't ignore any break in the skin. Keep injuries dry and clean. Call the doctor not only if there's redness or swelling (signs of infection), but for any wound that hasn't begun healing within a week.

Want to Know More? For more information on skin and foot care, call 610-402-CARE or see Related Stories to the right.

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