Experts highlight why diabetics need to be aware of foot gangrene

According to the World Health Organization, there were 830 million people living with diabetes in 2022, as compared to 200 million in 1990. This chronic, metabolic condition that affects millions of people worldwide may lead to other health complications if not diagnosed and treated on time.

While the link between diabetes and health issues like obesity and vision problems is widely acknowledged, a lesser-known complication that may arise out of uncontrolled diabetes is foot gangrene.

Dr Ashank Bansal, who is a vascular surgeon and interventional radiologist at Surana Sethia Hospital in Chembur, informs, “Foot gangrene occurs when blood flow to the foot is reduced, leading to tissue death due to a lack of oxygen, which further causes infection. People with uncontrolled blood sugar, nerve damage (neuropathy), and poor circulation are at a greater risk.”

Further highlighting how the condition can become severe, he says, “When nerves are damaged, you may not feel pain or injury to your feet, allowing small wounds to go untreated. Infections can set in and, with poor blood circulation, the body struggles to fight them, leading to tissue death. The complications can be loss of toes or limbs, and even sepsis if the infection spreads to the bloodstream.”

Uncontrolled blood sugar is a leading risk factor for the condition. Dr Shahid Parvez, who is a consultant general and laparoscopic surgeon at AIMS Hospital in Dombivli, warns, “Those with diabetes should stay extra vigilant as they can be at a higher risk of gangrene in the feet. It is a serious complication of uncontrolled diabetes that requires immediate treatment. A delay may even lead to amputation in severe cases.”

Warning signs of foot gangrene

Dr Bansal states two major warning signs of the condition:

Black toes: One of the earliest visible signs of gangrene is black toes. It shows that the tissue is dying due to a lack of blood flow.

Numb feet: Loss of sensation is also a warning sign. It means nerve damage has occurred, and injuries can go unnoticed.

Other signs and symptoms include:

• Foot ulcers or open wounds that won’t heal
• Swelling, redness or warmth in the foot
• Foul-smelling wounds
• Sudden or increasing foot pain
• Fever or chills, if the infection spreads

One should immediately consult a doctor if these signs are observed, and people with diabetes should stay extra vigilant.

“The treatment of the condition depends on the severity, but may include controlling blood sugar levels, antibiotics to fight infection, cleaning and dressing wounds, improving blood circulation through medications or vascular procedures or surgery to remove dead tissue, and in severe cases, amputation,” states Dr Bansal.

Tips to prevent foot gangrene

It is important to take conscious steps to prevent the condition, and to ensure timely diagnosis and treatment if any signs are observed.

The experts share the following essential tips:

• One should check their feet daily for cuts, blisters or colour changes.
• Keep blood sugar under control.
• Wear comfortable, well-fitted shoes, and avoid walking barefoot.
• Daily foot care is important.

“One should regularly monitor their blood sugar levels and take medication as prescribed by their doctor to prevent any complications,” Dr Parvez further states. 

Disclaimer: This is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Kindly consult a qualified medical expert for personalised guidance.

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