For many people, cold may cause symptoms of diabetic peripheral neuropathy. Such signs may include tingling, burning, numbness, or reduced ability to feel temperature changes or pain. Cold temperatures, bad weather, and reduced physical activities are the main causes of this condition. It is therefore important for individuals, especially diabetics to take care of their feet during the cold months. Practicing the right winter foot safety will help prevent any complications that may arise later on.
Serious Cold-Weather Ailments You Should Know
As temperatures decrease, the risk of contracting diseases goes up. Here are some common cold-weather illnesses you should know:
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Hypothermia
Prolonged exposure to cold causes your body to use stored energy. This makes your body lose heat faster, leading to an abnormally low body temperature. When body temperature is too low, the brain is affected. This limits the victim’s ability to move well and think clearly.
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Frostbite
This is an injury to the body caused by freezing. It usually affects the toes, fingers, cheeks, or ears, where it causes loss of feeling and color. Frostbite is dangerous because it can lead to permanent tissue damage, and eventually, amputation.
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Trench Foot
Trench foot is also an injury caused by prolonged exposure to cold and wet conditions. This ailment happens because wet feet lose heat a lot faster than dry feet. Due to this, the body causes blood vessels to shut down blood circulation in the feet. The lack of oxygen causes the skin tissues to start dying.
Cold Related Challenges for Diabetics
Cold weather can aggravate symptoms of diabetic peripheral neuropathy. This condition happens because of nerve damage, leading to numbness and pain in the hands and feet. It also causes loss of sensation, which can be quite troublesome. Since you can’t feel your feet, you hardly notice any problems that may be going on.
Regardless of the type of diabetes you have, freezing temperatures can increase levels of glycated hemoglobin or HbA1c. This happens because of reduced physical activity since it is difficult to go out. Therefore, controlling blood sugar levels during cold winter months can be tough.
How to Prevent Cold-Induced Injuries
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Stay Active
The bad weather can make it hard to go outside for a walk or quick workout. However, you need to stay active, especially during these cold days. Be sure to get the right level of physical activity, as recommended by your doctor. This will help you stay healthy.
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Double-Check Your Shoes
Before wearing your shoes, ensure they have no breaks, holes, or any other issues. Turn them over to remove any pebbles or rocks inside. Any small issue with your shoes can lead to injury. So, be on the lookout for that for proper winter foot safety.
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Invest in Warm Clothes
It is important to keep your body warm and dry in the cold winter months. So, get yourself good winter clothes, especially if you are spending a lot of time in the cold.
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Avoid Smoking and Drinking Too Much Caffeine
These activities can slow blood circulation, leading to constriction of blood vessels. You should avoid too much caffeine and smoking to keep your body healthy by ensuring proper blood flow.
Wear Special Diabetic Socks For Maximum Winter Foot Safety
As a way to keep your feet warm and in check during the cold days, consider wearing our specially-made socks for diabetics. They are designed to not only keep the cold at bay but also ensure comfort to your feet. Click here to shop now.