A Scots gran fears she may lose her leg after a seeping ulcer turned green months after she was taken off medication to control her diabetes. Extremities could be at risk due to the condition, which is caused when a person's body doesn't produce enough insulin to function properly.
Margaret Mcavoy had been taking insulin and tablets for two years when she was told by doctors that it was no longer needed. Now, however, a seeping wound has turned green which has left her family fearing she could lose the limb.
Just last month during Diabetes Awareness Week, Gary Fagg, MBE, Chairman of Trustees at the Paula Carr Diabetes Trust said: “If you have diabetes your feet need special attention, because diabetes can reduce the supply of blood to your feet and cause a loss of feeling."
Lower limb amputations' most common cause is diabetes and about 1 in 10 people with diabetes get a foot ulcer, which can cause a serious infection according to NHS Inform. This tends to be a complication long after diagnosis, however some may want to know about warning signs as well as ways to prevent type 2 diabetes.
Here are some key facts around the condition.
Type 2 diabetes warning signs
Symptoms of type 2 diabetes may depend from person to person, and can in some cases go unnoticed for a time. However, it is vital to get the condition diagnosed as soon as possible as it will continue to progress if left untreated.
According to Scotland's NHS Inform, type 2 diabetes symptoms include:
- feeling very thirsty
- passing urine more often than usual, particularly at night
- feeling very tired
- weight loss and loss of muscle bulk
- slow to heal cuts or ulcers
- frequent vaginal or penile thrush
- blurred vision
While it is not a symptom, type 2 diabetes is also often linked with an unhealthy lifestyle and obesity. If you are experiencing any symptoms, and are concerned about developing the condition, you should get in touch with your GP right away.
What is prediabetes?
According to charity Diabetes UK, prediabetes is when your blood sugars are higher than usual but are not yet at a level where you would be diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. It is also called borderline diabetes and if detected could allow you an opportunity to make lifestyle changes that will reduce your risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
Prediabetes does not have symptoms, and if you are already experiencing symptoms it is likely that you may already be developing type 2 diabetes. However, if it is caught in a check up you may be in luck, as 50 percent of cases of type 2 diabetes can be prevented or delayed with proper treatment, say the charity.
NHS guidance adds that even early stage type 2 diabetes can be reversed with a healthy and active lifestyle that encourages weight loss. This is another reason why identifying the condition as soon as possible is vital.
How can I reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes?
You can reduce your risk of developing type 2 diabetes by eating well, moving more and getting support to lose weight if you need to. While it all seems straightforward it can be difficult to flip your lifestyle upside-down which is why, according to Diabetes UK, it is important to get the right support.
The charity urge those who have the condition, or are at risk of developing the condition to seek out professional support and guidance. This can include:
- a weight-loss programme or group
- a registered dietitian or exercise specialist
- a type 2 diabetes prevention programme
- other local services to help you move more and eat better.
You can use the Diabetes UK Know Your Risk tool to find out if you're eligible for a place on the Diabetes Prevention Programme, Healthier You which will help get you the required support. Otherwise, you can discuss with your GP whether any support is required.
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