A Major Cause of Amputation in Diabetics

A major cause for leg amputation in diabetics is an infection in the foot or ankle. Because many diabetics do not recognize the signs of a foot or ankle infection, the condition often goes untreated and can rapidly lead to amputation.

Early signs of an infection to the foot or ankle include any area that is red, hot, & swollen. A diabetic may also notice an unexplained elevation of their blood sugar. As the infection progresses, the person may experience nausea, vomiting, fever & chills.

Infection in diabetics needs to be treated early and aggressively. Diabetes can decrease the body’s ability to fight infection. When this happens, a simple foot infection can lead to leg amputation in a matter of days.

Open wounds, blisters, athlete’s foot, and cracks in the skin can leave a diabetic susceptible to a foot or ankle infection. If you are diabetic and you notice any area of your foot or ankle that is red, hot & swollen, or you have an open wound or a blister, call your foot and ankle specialist immediately! Remember, aggressive & early treatment of infection in diabetics can greatly reduce the need for amputation.