Diabetic Foot Infections

Diabetic Foot Infections Overview

If you have diabetes, you are more likely to experience infections, especially in your lower extremities. Chronic uncontrolled diabetes can lead to narrowing of blood vessels, reducing circulation. With decreased blood flow, the body’s ability to heal cuts and wounds slows down significantly. In addition, nerve problems caused by diabetes often mean you are less likely to feel any cuts or sores on your feet. When wounds or cuts do not heal quickly, they become a breeding ground for bacteria. On top of that, elevated glucose levels can hinder the function of your white blood cells, which then can struggle to respond to infections. With diabetes, minor foot injuries can escalate to serious infections and conditions.

Gangrene

Gangrene is the death of tissue caused by lack of blood flow or severe infection. Because diabetes patients often have poor circulation, small wounds and infections can worsen as oxygen is not able to reach injured tissue. Diabetes patients are far more likely to experience gangrene, making it crucial to catch and treat infections early.

Osteomyelitis

Osteomyelitis is an infection of the bone and is a common complication of diabetic foot infections. Symptoms include pain, swelling and wound drainage. It is usually diagnosed by imaging and/or bone biopsy. Antibiotics are often necessary to treat osteomyelitis, sometimes together with surgery to remove the dead and damaged tissue and bone. Our specialists provide expertise in selecting the right antibiotic regimen for your needs.

What to Watch Out for as a Diabetic Patient

If you have diabetes, it is important to stay vigilant in monitoring your feet for any signs of damage or infection. If existing wounds are not healing properly, or if the wound starts to smell, you should call the infectious disease specialists immediately. Additional signs and symptoms to look out for include:

Redness or other changes in skin color

Swelling

Presence of pus or discharge

Treatment for Diabetic Foot Infections

The infectious disease specialists at Hattiesburg Clinic play a crucial role in treating diabetic foot infections. We work closely with our network of podiatrists and endocrinologists to ensure early intervention and develop treatment plans tailored to your specific needs. Depending on the severity of the infection, treatments may include:

Antibiotics to target and eliminate bacterial infections.
Wound care including specialized cleaning and dressings to promote healing.
Debridement, better known as the removal of dead tissue to allow healthy tissue to grow and prevent further infection.

Understanding your risks and being proactive about foot care is essential to prevent serious infections that could lead to severe complications. Our goal is to work with you and your medical team to provide comprehensive care to manage infections.