The pancreas is an organ in the body that produces insulin which helps regulate glucose or blood sugar. Diabetes is usually diagnosed and treated by a patient’s primary care physician. Some patients may be under the care of an endocrinologist; a medical doctor who specializes in glandular disorders such as diabetes. Other physicians who care for diabetic patients are ophthalmologists (eye), cardiologists (heart) and podiatrists (feet).
 Patients should have regular eye exams with their ophthalmologists so that any major eye diseases can be detected early to prevent or slow the progression of diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma and cataracts. Cardiologists manage any vascular problems a patient may encounter such as risks for stroke (cardiovascular disease), hypertension (high blood pressure) and heart attacks (myocardial infarction). They also care for patients who may have insufficient blood flow to the lower extremities and feet.
As a podiatrist, there have been numerous occasions in which a patient presents to my office complaining of numbness, tingling or any unusual sensations in their feet. These symptoms and a combination of blurred vision, increased urination, tiredness, lethargy and weight gain can be signs of diabetes. Patients who have these experiences are immediately referred to their primary care physician for a complete work up.
Our job as a foot care specialist is to educate diabetic patients on the proper care of their feet and to manage any complications that may occur.
 Regular visits are necessary so that any potential problems or complications can be detected and treated early. Two major risk factors that may threaten diabetics are vascular insufficiency (PVD); peripheral vascular disease and infection. If a patient has been diagnosed with poor circulation, they run the risk of amputation due to either a non-healing ulcer or gangrene, which is dead, necrotic skin/tissue. A skin infection, sore on the feet (ulcer) or even an ingrown toenail can quickly turn into a serious problem especially if it is not treated in a timely manner.
If a patient comes into my office with these problems, local wound care, antibiotics, off loading the foot may be initiated as necessary. We also provide a detailed discussion on how to care for their feet and possible risk factors. Additionally, hospital admission, consultation with either an infectious disease specialist, vascular specialist, endocrinologist or home health care may be part of patient management.
It is important that diabetics have regular check ups with a podiatrist. Education and early detection of any potential foot problems usually lead to patients living longer and healthier lives. And, more importantly, they are able to continue walking and participating in their regular activities of life. | |
| Dr. Lee attended the Ohio College of Podiatric Medicine in Cleveland, OH. She completed her residency at Wyckoff Heights Medical Center, Brooklyn NY. Dr. Lee is a Diplomate with the American Board of Podiatric Orthopedics and Primary Podiatric Medicine. She is also Board Certified as a Wound Care Specialist with the American Academy of Wound Management. Dr. Lee is a member of APMA, VPMA and the American Academy of Podiatric Practice Management.
 Debra A. Womick Lee, D.P.M., C.W.S
704 Thimble Shoals Blvd, Suite 300B
Newport News, VA 23606
757-595-7634
www.womickpodiatryclinic.com
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