You At Your Best

Dry, scaly skin is often a symptom of cold weather in winter months. And, if you have diabetes, your skin – especially that on your feet – may be even more affected by low-humidity and cooler temperatures. Read on to learn tips for keeping your skin soothed all season long. According to the American Diabetes Association, more than one-third of people with diabetes have a skin disorder caused by the condition. Increased glucose levels can lead to individuals having drier skin. With a little prevention and extra attention, you can avoid the increased risk of infection from wounds. Follow these tips: • Keep skin clean and apply talcum powder where skin touches skin. • Avoid strong soaps and detergents. • Take shorter, more mild-temperature showers or baths, and avoid bubble baths that can over-dry skin. • Apply lotion to skin immediately after bathing, and apply moisturizer as needed throughout the day. By preventing itchy and dry skin, you can prevent potential infections. • Consider using a humidifier to keep your living space from becoming too dry. Northwest Health provides specialized care for chronic wounds. To find out more about our wound care services, speak with your provider or visit NorthwestHealth. com/wound-care-service. You can also call the Wound Care Center in Bentonville at (479) 553-3100 or the Wound Care Center in Springdale at (479) 757-2030. Take a (foot) step toward health Foot care during winter is especially important for people with diabetes, according to Podiatrist Dr. Kory Miskin. Neuropathy, or nervous system impairment, can lead to people losing sensation in their extremities. During winter, it's imperative to: • Wash and inspect feet on a daily basis. Use mild soap and water, and avoid soaking feet. Dry feet completely and be particularly careful when drying between toes. • Apply lotion to feet regularly, but avoid putting lotion between toes as it may increase the risk of fungal growth. • If you find any cuts or scrapes, treat them immediately with antibiotic ointment approved by your physician. Seek medical attention for major cuts or burns. • Avoid warming and over-drying feet by a fireplace or radiator. • Wear loose, warm, dry socks in the winter and prevent feet from getting wet in snow and rain. Wear shoes and socks at all times. Dr. Miskin, who is affiliated with Northwest Physicians, is accepting new patients in both his Bentonville and Siloam Springs clinic locations. He provides foot and ankle care including ingrown toenail care, wart removal, diabetic limb salvage, general foot and ankle surgery, ankle replacement, reconstructive foot and ankle surgery, and arthroscopic surgery. Appointments may be scheduled by calling (479) 553-2664. Optimal glucose control By managing your diabetes through proper diet and adhering to recommended medication, you may prevent skin problems. During the holiday season, you may be surrounded by sweets and carbohydrates, which can increase blood glucose levels. Monitor your intake – which includes sticking to a portion size – and substitute a small portion of sweets by removing a portion of carbs from your meal. Learn more about our services for people with diabetes, including nutritional counseling and our support group, by visiting NorthwestHealth.com/ diabetes-care-services. The next support group meeting takes place from 1-2 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 10. For more information, call (479) 757-3667. About Northwest Health Northwest Health is the largest health system in Northwest Arkansas with five hospitals: Northwest Medical Center – Bentonville, Northwest Medical Center – Springdale, Northwest Medical Center – Willow Creek Women's Hospital, Siloam Springs Regional Hospital and Northwest Health Physicians' Specialty Hospital. The system has 487 beds, a combined active medical staff of more than 500 physicians and 2,400 associates working together to provide quality healthcare for the region. Northwest Health is a member of the Mayo Clinic Care Network, a select group of independent health systems that work closely with Mayo Clinic to improve the delivery of health care and better serve their patients and their communities. Northwest Health Physicians' Specialty Hospital, owned in part by physicians, is the official medical provider of the Arkansas Razorbacks. Learn more at NorthwestHealth.com. Northwest Physicians, affiliated with Northwest Health, is a multi-specialty physician group with approximately 50 locations throughout northwest Arkansas. Online scheduling is available for most primary care providers, so it's easier than ever to connect with a Northwest physician. Learn more at NW-Physicians.com. Soothe SpoNSor coNTeNT winter skin woes podiatrist Dr. Kory miskin 4 | YOU AT YOUR BEST | nwAdg.cOm/YOUATYOURBEST dEcEmBER - SEniOR HEAlTH | SATURdAY, nOvEmBER 30, 2019

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