If you have Type 2 Diabetes know that you are not alone. Over the years, many celebrities have been diagnosed with diabetes. Complete this crossword puzzle and see how many you can get (answers at the bottom of this post.)
What is Type 2 Diabetes?
Insulin is a hormone that regulates the sugar in your blood. Your cells need sugar. Normally, your blood carries sugar from what you eat as well as what is stored in your liver. The insulin is needed to get sugar to go into cells and out of the blood.
In Type 2 Diabetes, your body does not respond as easily to insulin, even though your body is still making it. In order for cells to get sugar, more insulin is needed. This is known as insulin resistance.
Over time, your body may begin to make less insulin or none at all. Now your cells can’t get sugar at all, leaving high amounts of sugar in your bloodstream. This is called insulin deficiency. Insulin deficiency leads to problems associated with the buildup of glucose in the blood.
Why do I Need a Podiatrist if I have Type 2 Diabetes?
A Podiatrist can keep an eye out for causes of ulcers. Type 2 diabetics need to make sure they don’t have ulcers because that can lead to loss of all or part of your foot. Prevention is key in avoiding these problems. Here are several complications that type 2 diabetics need to watch for:
- Neuropathy: This is a loss of sensation due to nerve damage. You may not be able to feel an injury on your feet, causing it to get worse and turn into an infection.
- Dry Skin: You may notice peeling skin or deep cracks in your heels.
- Calluses: A callus is your body’s way of protecting itself from a high pressure point. These can get very thick and painful, and can break down deep in your foot causing foot ulcers.
- Ulcers: Diabetics may not feel pain from ulcers, but it is important to get medical care for it. Ulcers can lead to amputations.
- Poor Circulation: Blood flow to your feet isn’t as strong as it once was. This decreases the amount of oxygen and healing factors that can reach the feet, making healing much harder.
- Amputations: Decreased blood flow and loss of sensation lead to ulcers. These ulcers can get infected, leading to removal of partial or total part of the foot.
Dr. David Schlam at Hollowbrook Foot Specialists is an expert in the field of podiatry. Let us help you prevent and avoid some of the major complications of diabetes. Schedule an appointment with us today by calling (845) 298 – 9074 or by clicking here.
By: David Schlam
