I’m sorry to hear about your diabetes and the complications it is causing you. The good news is that it is possible to turn your health situation around with some effort. Also, you are not alone. About 30 million people in the U.S. have diabetes, which is almost 10 percent of the population. Many of those people do not know they are living with the disease.
Although most people are familiar with diabetes, not as many people are aware of the potential complications of diabetes. Many people do not know that foot ulcers are a very common problem for diabetics. Though foot ulcers may sound relatively minor, they can be one of the most dangerous complications of diabetes. They can also be very avoidable.
Diabetic foot ulcers are a type of open sore on the foot that does not heal quickly. On average, diabetic foot ulcers last around a year, and in about half of all patients they come back. About 15 percent of all people who are living with diabetes will develop foot ulcers, and between 15 and 25 percent of those people will experience an amputation as a result. However, those amputations are preventable.
In order to prevent foot ulcers, diabetics should inspect their feet daily. If the diabetic can’t do it himself or herself, a family member can help. Diabetics should also not smoke. Diabetics should wear high-quality footwear, and should take good care of their feet. Doctors should examine the feet on a regular basis. Finally, the individual should eat healthier and exercise on a regular basis.
If you have suffered an amputation due to diabetes, in most cases you cannot pursue a lawsuit. However, in some situations, you may be able to pursue a legal case against your doctor or the hospital. If you believe your amputation could have been prevented, or if the health care provider did not properly handle your amputation, you should speak with an attorney. Call me, Conal Doyle, Amputation Attorney, at 310-385-0567. I can help. I’m not only an attorney, I am also an amputee. Call today to learn more.