What is Diabetes?

Diabetes is a systemic disease that occurs when your blood sugar levels are raised. There are many symptoms of diabetes, but diabetes also causes a variety of foot problems, which need close medical attention.

The three types of Diabetes are:

Type 1, also known as insulin dependent diabetes, usually occurs in children or young adults. This form of diabetes requires constant maintenance of the sugar levels in the blood and sufferers have to inject insulin into their bloodstream to control their glucose levels. This strain of diabetes has been linked to genetics and if a first-degree relative has the condition then chances of developing it are a little higher than normal.

Type 2 diabetes occurs in adults and is more commonly found in obese people. The insulin they produce is either less than is needed or does not function properly. This condition can be managed with diet, exercise and medication, and injections may be required sporadically.

Gestational Diabetes can occur during pregnancy and often resolves itself after giving birth. If you develop this type of diabetes you have an increased risk of developing Type 2 diabetes.

Symptoms of Diabetes:

Diabetes can often go unnoticed for some time, and it is usually only diagnosed by a blood test which you can get done with your GP. After time the following symptoms can develop:

• Diminished sensations and an inability to feel pain including numbness and tingling in the hands.
• Poor circulation leading to ulcers and possible blindness.
• Lowered immune system.
• Kidney failure.
• Blurred vision.
• Increased thirst and hunger.
• Dry mouth and frequent urination.
• Random weight loss or gain.

Relief and Prevention of Diabetes:

There are some medical solutions available that can relieve the condition, the most common being insulin injections for Type 1 diabetes. You should always consult your GP when looking for relief from the condition.
One of the most common conditions occurring in sufferers are foot problems – often referred to as Diabetic Foot which can develop to Charcot foot.

People with Diabetes should:

• Inspect their feet daily for problems such as blisters, bleeding and irritations between the toes.
• Pay particular attention to the type of footwear that is worn. There are specially made socks, slippers and insoles as well as shoes that are designed to increase comfort and support of the foot.
• Look into Diabetic foot creams that can help the condition.
• Visit your podiatrist on a regular basis to ensure the health of the feet is maintained.

Here's a handy list of our ranges of shoes that are related to helping with this condition:

>> Shoes for Diabetes