Please! Don't cut your own toenails!

[littlecat123]

If you are diabetic, please, don't cut your own toenails. Go see a podiatrist. If you have diabetes, your insurance will absolutely pay 100% for this.

When my dad was diagnosed with diabetes, I told him he should never cut his own toenails again. He kind of got mad and said "I'm not an invalid -- I can still cut my toenails myself". I explained to him that diabetics can lose a toe or a leg from a tiny cut from cutting toenails.

So, he was kind of grumpy, but went to the podiatrist who told him that his daughter probably saved his leg (and maybe his life) with that advice.

Even if you have to pay out of pocket, a $50 podiatry visit is a heck of alot less expensive than the loss of a leg and the loss of your independence.

[Terri_R]

It is a scarey thought to think of a simple thing such as this causing such damage but it is definitely true. If you don't have insurance and can't afford to see a podiatrist, at least go to one visit and have him/her show you how to cut your toenails safely and explain any special needs that you may have in foot care. I would also recommend "teaching" someone else what you have learned how to safely trim your toenails just in case there comes a time you yourself are not able to do so.

[myssi]

When my dad was diagnosed with diabetes, I told him he should never cut his own toenails again. He kind of got mad and said "I'm not an invalid -- I can still cut my toenails myself". I explained to him that diabetics can lose a toe or a leg from a tiny cut from cutting toenails.


This is where my dad is at the I am not an invalid state. He hates when we tell him things like this. His wife works in a hospital too but it seems no matter how much we try and tell him things for the betterment of his health he fights with us on it and gets even more stubborn.

You would think he would listen more since his brother died of complications and lost both his legs due to being a diabetic.

[littlecat123]

Has any one talked to him about depression? I think a lot of the "I am not an invalid" stage has to do with depression and denial of the disease? Would he be willing to try an anti-depressant? (My dad never did but he quickly moved past denial into acceptance).

[Terri_R]

Yes, it seems the fear of becoming an invalid grips the heart of older people diagnosed with anything. Maybe it is just a struggle to retain some sort of independence as they (we) age. I agree that it is often depression setting in as a result of their increasing dependence on others.

[aramathea]

Thank you for that advice. I was seeing a podiatrist to get my toenails cut, but I stopped. I will definitely go back.

[littlecat123]

Thank you for that advice. I was seeing a podiatrist to get my toenails cut, but I stopped. I will definitely go back.

I'm glad you'll be going back. Its just so important to see that podiatrist. One small cut on the foot of a diabetic can be life changing -- for the worse.