Question 1

what are the symptoms of diabetic ulcers?

Accepted Answer

Numbness, discharge: The typical ulcer caused by having diabetes is that due to the development of peripheral neuropathy. Once a daibetic has lost sensation in the feet, the muscles of the feet cause the toes to draw up into a 'claw' foot type shape. This causes excess pressures on the bottom of the foot and ulcers develop as a result of the pressure. Most patients discover an ulcer because of discharge in their sock.

Question 2

what is the definition or description of: diabetic ulcers?

Accepted Answer

Wound: Wound on lower extremity in a patient with diabetes as the skin integrity is lacking
May be associated with vascular disease
If concerned about bacteria in wound usually there are more than one bacteria at play
Often cuts as a result of the walking surface of the foot doesn't hit the ground straight

Question 3

what are some common consequences of having diabetic ulcers that would require hospitalization?

Accepted Answer

Infection,osteomyeli: Infection and cellulitis of the ulcer and osteomyelitis can require hospitalization for further treatment.

Question 4

what generally prevents diabetic ulcers from healing?

Accepted Answer

Circulation: Patients with diabetes develop numbness (neuropathy) in their feet which puts them at risk for getting wounds. Diabetes causes blockages in the small vessels of the feet causing poor circulation. In addition, diabetes affects the immune system and makes it less effective. Put together, diabetic patients are more likely to develop wounds and have a tougher time healing them.

Question 5

is there a use of honey in diabetic ulcers?

Accepted Answer

Maybe: Studies are coming about the the use of honey in diabetics. The caveat being: this must only be used under the guidance and supervision of a trained medical professional that sees and treats wounds and must only be medical grade products.

Question 6

how often do diabetic ulcers actually lead to amputation?

Accepted Answer

Diabetic ulcers: The results from different studies vary so there are wide ranges. The annual incidence of ulcers in diabetics is 2.5 to just under 11%; the incidence of amputation is .25% to 1.8%. 
http://clinicalevidence.bmj.com/ceweb/conditions/dia/0602/0602_background.jsp.

Question 7

what happens if diabetic ulcers don't heal; do you get gangrene?

Accepted Answer

Possibly: Or infection of the skin structures and bone can occur. See a wound specialist or a foot specialist that treats wounds.

Question 8

can you tell me if there are any natural ways of increasing circulation to help with diabetic ulcers?

Accepted Answer

Limited: The only natural way of increasing circulation is by exercising the part of the body involved, usually your legs.  This would have to be done under close supervision of your doctor because the exercise can be very bad for you if done to excess.  Following a diet routine that will help unclog the arteries involved would also be helpful.

Question 9

can mercurochrome be used for diabetic ulcers?

Accepted Answer

Mercurochrome: Isn't recommended any more since it doesn't really work as a topical antiseptic. Check w/your doctor for a full evaluation and other possibilities.

Question 10

what is diabetic ulcers on the feet look like?

Accepted Answer

Deep and Moist: Diabetic ulcers are usually deep and moist. Usually located at pressure points on the bottom of the foot. If infected they will drain smelly fluid. These are very serious and you should see a physician.

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Diabetic ulcers in children

A member asked:

What are the symptoms of diabetic ulcers?

A member asked:

What is the definition or description of: diabetic ulcers?

A member asked:

What are some common consequences of having diabetic ulcers that would require hospitalization?

A member asked:

What generally prevents diabetic ulcers from healing?

A member asked:

Is there a use of honey in diabetic ulcers?

A member asked:

How often do diabetic ulcers actually lead to amputation?

A member asked:

What happens if diabetic ulcers don't heal; do you get gangrene?

A member asked:

Can you tell me if there are any natural ways of increasing circulation to help with diabetic ulcers?

A member asked:

Can mercurochrome be used for diabetic ulcers?

A member asked:

What is diabetic ulcers on the feet look like?

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