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Understanding the Connection Between Diabetes and Swollen Feet

Jeannette | Posted on November 1, 2024 

According to the American Diabetes Association, over 38 million people were diabetic in 2021. If you’re concerned about having this chronic disease, one of the first places to check is beneath you. 

While there are many causes of foot swelling, there seems to be a trend between inflammation and diabetes. Our team at Family Medicine Austin can help you with diagnosis and treatment, but there’s much to learn. If you want to begin managing diabetes symptoms, it helps to understand a common complaint. 

Take a look below to discover the link between diabetes and swollen feet so you don’t skip a step! 

Understanding the Impact of Diabetes 

Although many people are dealing with diabetes, there’s still a lack of awareness of the condition. Unless someone gets a diagnosis, the average household doesn’t understand the damage of diabetes. 

The following list includes areas where diabetes can cause damage:

  • Heart
  • Kidney
  • Nerves
  • Vision
  • Limbs

Certain health conditions can go unnoticed for years, but diabetes shouldn’t be overlooked. When your health is threatened by this chronic disease, treatment is your best course of action. At our family practice in Austin and Leander, you can discover which health conditions impact your life. 

Potential Causes of This Condition 

The type of diabetes that someone is diagnosed with will impact the causes and treatment. Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes have significant differences that a doctor can help you identify. 

If you’ve been diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes, it could have stemmed from environmental factors. Genes and viruses can develop Type 1 or pregnant women may experience gestational diabetes. 

Type 2 diabetes often comes from lifestyle factors and genetics. Some families have insulin resistance, which can clog arteries, but diet and habits can contribute to the condition. Most people who struggle with weight management get diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes if they can’t control their blood sugar levels. 

Since hormonal imbalances can be attributed to Type 2 diabetes, you don’t want to overlook any concerns. Consider your family history and lifestyle to determine if a diabetes care visit is needed. 

Significant Symptoms 

Have you noticed an increase in thirst lately? For some, thirst can be an indicator of diabetes, but there are other obvious signs to watch out for. 

Diabetic retinopathy is a common symptom that is easy to spot. This is because diabetes can impact vision and cause blindness. When high blood sugar enters the retina, it can disrupt nerve functioningand cause major discomfort. 

Another thing to watch for is diabetic wounds. These can look like open sores and often occur around the feet and toes. Wounds are a common diabetes symptom that results from poor circulation and diabetic neuropathy. 

What Is the Link Between Diabetes and Swollen Feet? 

Diabetes and swollen feet seem to go hand-in-hand for most patients who receive a diagnosis. Understanding why this inflammation occurs is essential for learning how to manage symptoms. 

Not only do diabetic wounds become a risk, but with poor circulation, swelling also increases. Swollen feet can disrupt daily life, and not just your wardrobe and your steps. Avoiding treatment could result in worse symptoms and foot discomfort. 

If you’re covered by Medicare, we’ve listed a few facts to know about getting care. With Medicare, you can save money without sacrificing your health. Another way to save money and frustration is by managing your pain.

Read on to discover effective strategies for pain reduction. 

How Do Diabetes Patients Manage Pain?

There’s nothing comfortable about swollen feet and ankles. The pain can become so excruciating that some people avoid walking and require professional care. 

If you’re looking for foot care for diabetics, our team has a few suggestions. Lifestyle changes seem to be an effective strategy for reducing discomfort, but good hygiene and elevation can also help. 

Many of our patients wear compression socks to help manage blood flow, but it’s still essential to get check-ups. Depending on your condition, we can prescribe medications to manage fluid build-up and swelling. 

Other swelling remedies for diabetes can include:

  • Soaking in warm/ cold baths 
  • Wearing well-fitting shoes
  • Exercising 
  • Staying hydrated 

After talking to your doctor, you can receive expert advice on diabetes and related to your condition.

How Can Our Team Help With Treatment? 

At Family Medicine Austin, you can trust that you’re getting the best treatment in the area. We serve patients in the Austin DMA and Leander, Texas regions, so you don’t have to travel far. 

The type of diabetes and other health conditions you’ve been diagnosed with will play a big role in your treatment. Although some strategies are consistently beneficial, not all treatment looks the same. Take a look at our list of signs that you need a diabetes care center visit! 

While diabetes is one of our doctor’s specialties, we are a comprehensive clinic for all healthcare needs. Read below to learn more about how we handle these diagnoses. 

A Closer Look at Our Diabetes Expertise 

Our office has a diverse team of professionals, uniquely skilled to meet unique treatment plans. With diabetes, you can meet with any of our seven providers to get started. 

Having a knowledgeable team by your side can help you quickly find answers to your diabetes questions. Our Austin professionals will provide you with education to manage blood sugar levels and more. We try to assist our patients in any way possible to reduce the risk of other health complications. 

Since diabetes can impact so many essential organs, you don’t want to go left untreated. Make an appointment with our office and we can find a clear path to maintaining your health. 

Get a Step Ahead with Our Austin Family Practice

When it comes to your health and well-being, you don’t want to take any shortcuts. At Family Medicine Austin, you can stay ahead of diabetes and swollen feet.  

Medical info can quickly become tangled and overwhelming. Our diabetic and Medicare patients benefit from seeing our team and finding a path to treatment. As you manage symptoms, you can trust that we will provide excellent care and innovative resources. 

Book an appointment online if you have lingering questions or need medical advice! 

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At Family Medicine Austin, we provide preventive, diagnostic, and disease management care for families. Our expert providers offer personalized, patient-centered services to achieve your health goals. Come see us today for comprehensive care that caters to your needs.

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IMPORTANT! All information presented in this website is intended for informational purposes only and not for the purpose of rendering medical advice. Statements made on this website have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The information contained herein is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
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