TerryWhite Chemmart pharmacist Chris Campbell
looks at foot health, urinary tract infections and why
sticking to your diabetes treatment plan is crucial
The skin on my feet
is often really dry.
As a diabetic, I know
I need to tread
carefully around my
feet, so what’s the
best solution?Moisturise, moisturise,
moisturise! Make this
a daily habit, using it
as a chance to carry out
a daily foot check at the
same time. The ideal
moisturiser is one that’s
pH balanced, fragrance
free and is specifically
formulated for dry,
sensitive skin.
While you’re
moisturising your feet,
there are a few things to
keep an eye on and look
out for. If you notice any
broken skin between
your toes; calluses or
corns; cracked skin; or
nail-colour or foot-shape
changes, make sure you
see your doctor or your
podiatrist within seven
days. If you see redness;
blisters; ulcers; any
unusual swelling;
bruising or cuts;
or an ingrown
nail, make an
appointment
to see your
doctor as soon
as possible –
ideally within
the next
24 hours. ■I think I have a urinary
tract infection (UTI).
How can I tell for sure,
and what should I do?
Getting treatment for a
UTI as soon as possible is
vital to avoid the infection
spreading to your kidneys.
Knowing the classic signs and
symptoms so you can seek
help early is really important.
These include:
- Pain or burning when
you urinate - Feeling like you have
to urinate all the time,
even though no urine
comes out when you go
to the toilet - Strong-smelling urine
- Urine that’s cloudy,
dark or bloody - Fever or chills
- Pain in your back or
abdomen
If you notice any of these,
make an appointment to see
your doctor as soon as you
can, because the earlier you
start treatment for a UTI,
the better.
If you get UTIs frequently,
you can take preventative
action by drinking plenty
of water, wearing cotton
underwear and keeping your
glucose levels within your
target range as much as
possible. Also talk to
your doctor or
pharmacist about
whether taking
a cranberry
supplement
or a probiotic
that contains
Lactobacillus
rhamnosus or
Lactobacillus
reuteri may be
of benefit.diabetic living MARCH/APRIL 2019 11Q&A (^) ASK CHRIS