Overview
What is "Foot Attack"
A serious worsening of foot condition in a person with diabetes which you need to see a doctor immediately.
This might be
- A new foot ulcer
- A red, hot, swollen foot
- A new foot infection and/or
- A change in colour of the foot or toes (pale, purple, or black)
"Foot Attack" occurs after an injury to a foot with reduced feeling or blood supply which may be a result of poor diabetes control. It is important to control your blood sugar.
What is a Diabetic Foot Ulcer?
A wound, tear, hole or break in the skin over the foot and ankle which may
- Blister - Start from a blister, or bleeding, or puncture from something sharp
- Poor nail trimming techniques or trauma leading to nail puncturing the flesh - Allow bacteria to enter and lead to an infection
- Develop into gangrene (dead tissue), bone infection, and blood infection
Warning signs of "Foot Attack"
Contact the doctor you are on follow up with or go to the Emergency Department if you have any of the following:
- Red, hot, swollen foot
- Fluid (pus) leaking out from your existing wound, staining your socks/shoes or increased foul smell
- Toe(s) or ulcer turning pale, purplish or black
- Fever or chills
Remember that with diabetes, you may not feel pain even when you see a wound on your foot.
You should check your feet daily to look for any of the above changes. Identifying these early warning signs and highlighting them to your doctor will give you the best chance of healing.
Detection & Treatment
Your foot ulcer will be assessed by our team of doctors, nurses and/or podiatrists.
- Podiatrist
- Doctors specialised in blood vessel, bone and diabetes
- Nurses specialised in wound care and diabetes
Early management of your foot condition can prevent it from getting worse so that hospital admission, operation or amputation can be avoided.
Treatment may include:
- Medications to control infection and blood sugar level
- Specialised ulcer treatment and dressings, if needed
- Reducing walking on the foot with wound as much as possible
- Wearing the devices (boots/shoes) recommended by the foot specialists
- Closely follow the changes made within your shoes to relieve pressure over the wound site
- Ways to improve blood supply to your foot
How do I help my foot ulcer to heal?
- Attend all appointments with your doctor, nurse, or podiatrist.
- Keep good control of your diabetes and take your medications as advised.
- Keep your dressing dry and change it regularly as instructed.
- Reduce walking and wear the correct footwear/boot recommended by the nurse/podiatrist.
- Check both feet daily for any other new wounds or ulcers, especially between your toes.
- Seek medical attention immediately if new foot wound appears or healed foot wound breaks down.
Specialties & Services
