Diabetes Swollen Feet: Causes And Treatments

Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects millions of people worldwide. People with diabetes are at an increased risk of developing complications, including nerve damage and poor circulation. These complications can lead to a variety of symptoms, including swollen feet.

Swollen feet in people with diabetes can be caused by a range of factors, including peripheral neuropathy, kidney damage, heart disease, infections, and some medications used to treat diabetes.  In this blog post, we will explore the Diabetes swollen feet causes and symptoms, as well as treatment and prevention strategies to help manage this condition.

What are the potential causes of Diabetes swollen feet?

Diabetes is when the human body does not produce enough or any insulin. The hormone insulin is secreted by the pancreas. It aids in the absorption of sugar by your cells. Swollen feet in people with diabetes can be caused by several factors, including: 

1. Peripheral neuropathy

High blood sugar levels in uncontrolled diabetes can damage nerves in the feet and legs, leading to poor blood flow and fluid retention. High glucose levels, if left untreated, can harm the lining of tiny blood vessels. This damage may cause poor blood circulation.

2. Kidney damage

Diabetes can damage the kidneys, causing fluid retention in the body. Because of poor circulation, fluid can accumulate in the ankles and feet, resulting in swelling.

3. Heart disease

Heart disease can cause swollen feet in people with diabetes because it can lead to poor blood circulation in the legs and feet. When the heart is not pumping blood effectively, it can cause fluid buildup in the lower extremities, including the feet and ankles. This can cause the feet to become swollen and painful. People with diabetes are at a higher risk for heart disease because high blood sugar levels can damage blood vessels and increase the risk of developing plaque in the arteries.

4. Infections

Foot infections, such as cellulitis or osteomyelitis, can cause swelling and inflammation. Sprains and fractures that go untreated can cause swelling. Inflammatory infection can occur in untreated cuts and scrapes. If you have diabetes, you should regularly inspect your feet for bruises, cuts, and other injuries.

5. Medications

Some medications used to treat diabetes can cause swollen feet as a side effect. Insulin or thiazolidinedione therapy can cause fluid retention in the body, leading to swollen ankles and feet. It is important to speak with an endocrinologist or healthcare provider if you experience swollen feet, as it can signify a more serious health condition.

Also, reads Are Diabetes and Heart Disease Related?

What are the other symptoms associated with Diabetes swollen feet?

In addition to Diabetes swollen feet, a diabetic patient may feel several other symptoms with this condition. These symptoms may include:

1. Pain or tenderness in the feet and ankles
2. Numbness or tingling in the feet and toes
3. Redness or warmth in the affected area
4. Skin changes, such as thickening or scaling
5. Sores or ulcers that do not heal
6. Weakness or loss of balance
7. Limited mobility or difficulty walking

These symptoms may be a sign of a more serious condition, and prompt medical attention can help prevent further complications.

Diabetic swollen feet treatments

If you have diabetes and experience swelling in your feet, here are 10 ways to help you control the fluid in your feet. 

1. Wear compression socks

Compression socks assist in keeping the proper level of strain on your legs and feet. According to a 2017 study, this can increase blood flow in your feet and reduce swelling. Compression socks protect your calf from the ankle to the knee. Wear them like frequent socks daily and take them off before bed. Please consult your doctor to determine whether you should wear them with one or both legs. Compaction socks mustn't be too tight, so begin with gentle compression and gradually increase the compression as needed. An overly tight compression sock can dramatically decrease circulation. It's also a good idea not to wear socks over open sores or wounds. Check out some diabetic socks.

2. Raise your feet -

According to the NHS, raising your foot above the heart level can still help reduce fluid retention and swelling in the reduced part of your body. Rather than accumulating in your foot, fluid flow yields to your body. While seated on a sofa or lying down, you can enhance your foot. Using a tiny stool may reduce swelling if you can't keep your feet above heart level while sitting at a desk. Legs Up to the Wall yoga position may also be beneficial. Here's how to go about it: Lie on your back with your buttocks as near to the wall as feasible. Elevate your legs and place them against the wall while lying down. Stay in this position for 5 to 10 minutes to reduce swollen feet diabetes.

3. Exercise regularly -

According to the NHS, exercise is beneficial for weight maintenance and blood sugar control; it can also improve blood flow and reduce swelling caused by inactivity. Non-weight-bearing exercises such as walking, swimming, and cycling may be beneficial. According to a 2018 review of studies, a mixture of resistance and aerobic training is the most effective in controlling blood glucose levels.

Also, Read Is Peanut Butter Good for Diabetes?

4. Maintain a healthy weight -

Achieving and maintaining a healthy weight can help you manage your diabetes. When your sugar levels are within the target zone, you are less likely to have blood vessel damage, which can result in poor bloodstream and swelling. Other advantages of maintaining a healthy weight include reduced joint pain, a lower risk of cardiovascular disease, and more energy.

5. Keep hydrated -

Increased water intake may appear counterproductive if your body retains fluid. However, the more fluid you consume, the more fluid you expel through urination. Furthermore, when you're dehydrated, your body stores extra water. Before raising your fluid intake, consult your doctor to see if it is appropriate. If your edema is caused by heart or liver problems, your doctor may suggest that you limit your fluid intake.

6. Keep salt to a minimum -

Eating many salty food products can also aggravate swelling. The American Dietary Guidelines recommend daily consumption of no and over 2,300 milligrams (mg). If you do have diseases like diabetes, you may have to limit your salt intake. Consult our doctor to determine how much sodium you can safely consume daily. To reduce -

• Increase your intake of fresh vegetables and fruits.
• Avoid buying and consuming processed foods.
• When shopping for canned goods, focus on low-sodium options.
• Cooking with herbs instead of salt can be beneficial.
• A pinch of garlic powder
• Oregano
• Rosemary
• Thyme
• Paprika

7. Every hour, get up and move -

Sitting for prolonged periods can also cause swelling. Get up at least once per hour and go for a short three- to five-minute walk to improve blood circulation.

8. Try magnesium supplements -

Magnesium is a mineral that aids in the regulation of nerves and levels of blood sugar. A magnesium deficiency can cause fluid retention or swelling. Before beginning any magnesium supplements, please consult with our doctor to ensure they are safe for use. High doses of a nutritional magnesium supplement may cause diarrhea, stomach pain, and nausea. Severe supplementation complications include an increase in heart rate and cardiac arrest. Intake may lead to an accumulation of magnesium in your plasma if you have a chronic kidney disease, which can result in muscle weakness. Experiment with different essential oils. A few people believe applying essential oils topically can improve circulation and reduce swelling.

9. Epsom salts bath -

Epsom salt bath is a sulfate solution compound that aids in pain relief and swelling reduction. To make a relaxing foot soak, fill the water tub and Epsom salt. To avoid foot injury if you have nerve damage, test the temperature of the water with your hands first.

Also, Read the Difference Between Diabetes Type I & II.

Conclusion -

Diabetes is characterized by swollen feet. High blood sugar levels can cause blood vessels to constrict, allowing fluid to allocate in your ankles and feet. It can also cause nerve damage, making it difficult to detect foot injuries. As your body attempts to heal them, fluid buildup can occur. Blood clots can be caused by certain medications that may also contribute to diabetes-related swelling. Exercise and elevating your feet can help reduce swelling. Collaborating with your medical team to maintain a healthy blood sugar range is your safest choice for avoiding fluid retention.

Also, Read Is Papaya good for diabetes?