MILTON'S FOOT NOTES

"ULCERS & OPEN WOUNDS"

“Could’ve, would’ve, should’ve!”   When you’re a double amputee, like me, who has gone through a long battle before losing my limbs, you go through a period of time where you question every decision you are making concerning your medical options. 

I’ve asked myself countless questions…

How long should I wait to see if my medications are working? 

Should I try another medication?

Did I not pay enough attention to my body?

And the question that haunts me: Did I DO something that could have caused my problems?

But after undergoing countless surgeries & mourning, I have come to a new state of normal.  I can think with a clear head now.  And I have learned so much.  

One of the main things I have realized is that I can’t think of the past.  I can’t change my outcome, but maybe I can affect a better one for someone else! 

Most of the time, a healthy person doesn’t need to be so worried about simple cuts, scrapes, or minor injuries.  But, when they have other medical problems, like Diabetes, a minor cut can easily turn into a major medical problem, for which hospitalization may be required. 

Tips that have helped me the most:

1. You should check your body often, especially your feet, legs, and hands. 
2. Use the appropriate skin care products like powders and skin moisturizers.  Ask your Podiatrist about what skin care products are better for your skin type.  Depending on your skin type, you may need to use other products. 
3. It’s also important to know that some problems may not always be possible to spot by a visual examination!  The formation of Ulcers & other wounds can be caused by another problem. That brings me to something else you should be familiar with. That is your Vascular Health.  Poor control of your blood sugar can result in a host of related health issues. It would be a good idea to see a doctor specializing in vascular medicine as a precautionary measure. 
4. If you already have an ulcer or wound, poor blood flow & poor circulation can prevent the healing of your open wound.  Treating these wounds takes patience and vigilance. Regular dressing changes, and seeing various medical professionals as directed.  
5. Blood and bone infections are a serious concern with open wounds.  They should be prevented at all costs! Getting the proper diagnosis of the type of infection, in order to find the right antibiotics to treat the wound is also important!
6. You should be sure that your doctors and everyone involved in your case are on the same page, and are have given you all your options, if you do need to deal with an infection or hospitalization.  The old saying, “It takes a village to raise a child!” holds true.  The village is your medical team.  The doctors can only be your village if you are completely involved and communicative.  Make sure to ask questions and get involved with your situation. 
7. You need to take control of your condition, and pay attention to your treatment.  Don’t be afraid to ask questions! No one will care about you more than you!

“Oh and P.S.!” Please be aware! It is a patient’s right to see all relevant information on their case.  Such as test results, labs & Xrays.  I know for me it gave me comfort in coming to terms with my situation when I could see everything in black and white.  Some facilities my charge a fee, but you have the right to ask.

Until next time be well!

“Milton”