The Effect of Soaking Feet in Warm Water for Diabetics

Neuropathy or nerve damage is a problem that is often experienced by people with diabetes (diabetes). This condition is more common in the feet causing the patient to lose the ability to feel pain or other sensations. So, what is the effect of soaking feet in warm water for diabetes patients?

Effects of Soaking Feet in Warm Water for Diabetics

Diabetes makes blood sugar levels higher than normal. High blood sugar levels can cause damage to nerves and blood vessels.

Damage to blood vessels can occur in the legs; it means the leg area will get less blood. If this happens, the sufferer will lose some of the feeling (sensation) in the legs

When the ability to feel sensations is lost, it can make it difficult for sufferers to feel pain, cold, and heat.

In addition, diabetics are prone to injury to the feet such as scratches, infections or diabetic ulcers. If such injuries are not detected and treated early, the worst risk is amputation.

Also Read: Getting to Know Foot Problems Commonly Experienced by Diabetics

In addition, diabetics with neuropathy in the feet often experience dry skin because the condition reduces hydration in the skin. That’s why, soaking feet in warm water can make the skin of the feet even drier.

In addition, soaking your feet in warm water can also remove the natural oils that are on the skin. This will make the skin of the feet drier and more prone to cracking; and the risk of bacterial and fungal infections.

Although foot care is something that is important for diabetics, soaking your feet in warm water should not be done.

Tips for Caring for Diabetic Feet

Here are various ways to care for your feet that can be done to prevent the development of problems with your feet, including:

1. Routinely Check the Condition of the Feet

As with facial skin, the condition of the feet also needs to be considered and checked regularly. This step can help you prevent injury or infection that may occur and develop into foot ulcers.

2. Wash and Dry Your Feet Routinely

One good foot care practice is to wash your feet every day and dry them thoroughly, especially between the toes. In addition, this method can also help keep feet clean.

Also Read: Diabetics Often Experience Dry Mouth, What’s the Cause?

3. Use Moisturizing Cream

Providing moisture to dry feet can help prevent cracked feet. Apply cream or lotions alcohol-free on the tops and bottoms of your feet after you wash your feet.

However, avoid using the cream between the toes. These areas tend to stay moisturised naturally, so applying moisturizing creams can cause moisture to build up and make them more susceptible to yeast infections.

4. Use Footwear

Using the right footwear can help minimize injuries that diabetics may not be aware of. Use footwear that can help prevent the development of calluses.

Now, that’s a variety of ways to treat feet for diabetics that can be done. In the end, aif you want to soak your feet in warm water to relax your feet, you should not soak them for too long.

Before soaking, have someone else test the temperature of the water. Then avoid using Epsom salt in the water because it can dry out your feet even more.

After you finish soaking your feet, dry your feet especially between the toes. After that use lotion to prevent dry skin.

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