What are some common autoimmune diseases?
An estimated 8% of Americans suffer from an autoimmune disease. Common autoimmune diseases include:
Rheumatoid arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis is a type of autoimmune disease that damages your joints and other parts of your body. Rheumatoid arthritis occurs when your immune system mistakenly attacks the lining of your joints.
The symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis include fatigue, tenderness, and joint stiffness.
Type 1 diabetes
Type 1 diabetes is a chronic condition that causes the immune system to attack the pancreas. The pancreas is responsible for producing insulin, a hormone that converts glucose into energy for your cells. People with type 1 diabetes make little to no insulin.
High levels of blood sugar can cause problems like fatigue, nerve damage, and poor blood circulation. Diabetes can lead to foot ulcers, which is a leading cause of amputation.
Other autoimmune diseases include:
- Lupus
- Psoriatic arthritis
- Multiple sclerosis
The effects of autoimmune diseases can result in several problems with your feet and legs. At Advanced Foot, Ankle, & Wound Specialists, PA, the team works with you to relieve your symptoms and restore your health.
How can an autoimmune disease affect my feet?
In addition to causing inflammation and damage throughout your body, autoimmune diseases can also lead to slow-healing wounds on your legs and feet.
Type 1 diabetes is a common condition that can lead to complications like damage to the nerves in your legs and feet. Known as neuropathy, this nerve damage can prevent you from feeling minor injuries like cuts, blisters, or ingrown toenails.
Diabetes can also cause reduced blood flow in your legs and feet, which affects your body’s ability to heal itself. Over time, these small injuries become larger wounds that can lead to serious complications like infection or gangrene.
Slow-healing wounds may also develop from medications for autoimmune diseases like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis.
When should I see a podiatrist about my symptoms?
You should schedule an appointment at Advanced Foot, Ankle, & Wound Specialists, PA, if you notice problems with your feet. Issues like numbness, pain, or tenderness can signal complications with an underlying autoimmune disease.
If you experience an ulcer or slow-healing wound, the team specializes in surgical and non-surgical wound care.
What treatments are available?
If you’re not already on treatment for your autoimmune disease, your doctor may begin treatment by addressing any underlying conditions. In many cases, properly managing your autoimmune disease is key to treating your foot problem.
If you suffer from pain or discomfort in your feet, your podiatrist may use various treatments to relieve your symptoms, including:
- Orthotics
- Pain medication
- Splints
- Physical therapy
If you suffer from slow-healing wounds, the team offers several advanced wound care treatments like bio-engineered skin substitutes and hyperbaric oxygen therapy.
To speak with a doctor about your condition, call Advanced Foot, Ankle, & Wound Specialists, PA, or book your appointment online today.
