How uncontrolled diabetes can lead to nerve damage and limb amputation?

Uncontrolled diabetes leads to high blood sugar levels, which can damage various parts of the body, including nerves, blood vessels, kidneys, heart, eyes, and limbs. Over time, excess sugar damages the small blood vessels that nourish the nerves, leading to diabetic neuropathy. Early signs include tingling, numbness, burning, or pain in toes and fingers, gradually spreading upward. If untreated, it reduces blood flow, causing sores and infections that heal slowly. This can result in gangrene, making amputation of the toe, foot, or leg necessary.

Every year, around 1 lakh amputations in India are linked to diabetes. However, with proper diabetes management, healthy eating, regular exercise, blood sugar monitoring, and medication, these complications can be avoided. Foot care is crucial—checking feet daily for wounds, keeping them clean and moisturized, wearing comfortable footwear and cotton socks, and avoiding tight shoes can prevent infections. Regular foot checkups with a doctor are necessary if you notice persistent sores, ulcers, swelling, discoloration, or pain.

When infections become severe and tissues die, doctors recommend surgical removal of the affected area to prevent it from spreading. Healing after amputation takes around four to six weeks, and continued diabetes care is important to protect the remaining limbs.

To read more about this, visit our blog.

https://www.freedomfromdiabetes.org/blog/post/how-uncontrolled-diabetes-can-lead-to-nerve-damage-and-limb-amputation/3000