How Diabetes Affects Blood Flow in Your Legs and Feet
Having diabetes can change how blood moves through your legs and feet. Think of your blood vessels like pipes that carry blood to every part of your body. When someone has diabetes, these pipes can become narrow and stiff over time, making it harder for blood to flow as well as it should. This is extra important in your legs and feet because they are the farthest from your heart.
When diabetes affects the blood flow in your legs, you might feel different things. Your feet might feel cold or numb. Sometimes they might tingle or hurt. Walking might make your legs hurt or feel tired quickly. These feelings happen because your legs and feet aren’t getting all the blood they need to stay healthy. Just like a garden hose that’s partly blocked, less blood gets through when the vessels are narrow.
The good news is that there are ways to help keep your legs and feet healthy when you have diabetes. Checking your blood sugar, staying active, and looking at your feet every day for any changes are all important steps. It’s also very helpful to wear good shoes that fit well and keep your feet clean and dry. If you smoke, stopping smoking can really help your blood flow better.
To learn more about keeping your legs and feet healthy with diabetes, or to set up a visit with our caring team at Pinnacle Vein and Vascular Center, call us today at 1-888-553-VEIN (8346). Taking care of your blood flow now can help prevent problems later.
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