In the past, medical-assisting clothing hasn’t exactly been stylish or fashionable. From diabetic socks to bracelets and other items, most people wearing medical-related clothing sought to hide it from others rather than wear it in plain sight. Fortunately, this type of clothing has come a long way in recent years, particularly for those who suffer from diabetes. Aside from fashionable socks, diabetics now have comfortable footwear for year-round use.
Diabetes is an ongoing, or chronic, long-term condition that results in the body having a high blood glucose (or blood sugar) level. This may be due to inadequate insulin production or because the body doesn’t properly respond to insulin. Common symptoms of diabetes include frequent urination along with increased levels of thirst and hunger. There are two types of diabetes: Type 1, where the body doesn’t produce insulin, and Type 2, where the body doesn’t produce enough insulin for maintain proper function. Most diabetics suffer from Type 2, rather than Type 1, diabetes.
According to the American Diabetes Association, in 2012, approximately 29.1 million Americans, or 9.3 percent of the population, suffered from diabetes. Just two years earlier, in 2010, these same figures were 18.1 million and 7.0 million. There is a higher prevalence among seniors, as 25.9 percent, or 11.8 million seniors, over the age of 65 suffer from the condition. Diabetes causes a number of complications, including low blood sugar levels and high blood pressure. In more severe cases, heart attacks or strokes may occur. Over time, diabetes can also lead to non-traumatic amputations that almost exclusively involve the lower limbs.
Diabetes greatly affects the lower limbs, particularly the feet. Even those who have just been diagnosed or who are considered borderline diabetic may benefit from diabetes-related foot care. Nerve damage can easily occur as high blood sugar levels damage the nerves that send messages to a person’s legs and feet. Over time, this damage can lead to burning or tingling sensations along with shooting pains or loss of feeling. Some diabetics may ultimately suffer from loss of protective sensation, which makes it harder for them to feel pain along with pressure, heat or cold.
Fortunately, there is an increased amount of diabetes-related clothing on the market. One example is diabetic socks for men and women. These socks assist in protecting the feet from injury along with controlling excess moisture and reducing wrinkling or bunching, which can cause blisters and ulcers on diabetic feet. Not only do these socks relieve diabetes-associated foot problems, but they also look stylish and modern, making it easier to comfortably wear them in a variety of settings.
To help combat troublesome symptoms of diabetes, the Mayo Clinic suggests selecting healthy foods and maintaining a healthy weight, along with making regular exercise a consistent part of one’s routine. Aside from wearing the appropriate diabetic socks and shoes, it’s also a good idea to wash the feet daily with water and mild soap and following your doctor’s treatment advice for controlling diabetes, blood pressure, and other related problems.
Article Submitted By Derrick Manning ( Community Writer).
