192 Where There Is No Doctor 2011
Prevention of damage to hands, feet, and eyes: The large open sores often seen on
the hands and feet of persons with leprosy are not caused by the disease itself and
can be prevented. They result because, when feeling has been lost, a person no
longer protects himself against injury.
For example, if a person with normal feeling walks a long way and gets a blister,
it hurts, so he stops walking or limps.
But when a person with
leprosy gets a blister, it
does not hurt.
So he keeps walking
until the blister bursts
and becomes infected.
Still without pain, the
infection gets deeper
and attacks the bone.
In time the bone is destroyed
and the foot becomes more
and more deformed.
1. Protect hands and feet from things that can cut, bruise,
blister, or burn them:
Do not go barefoot, especially not where there are sharp
stones or thorns. Wear shoes or sandals. Put soft padding
inside shoes and under straps that may rub.
When working or cooking meals, wear gloves.
Never pick up an object that might be hot without
first protecting your hand with a thick glove or
folded cloth. If possible, avoid work that involves
handling sharp or hot objects. Do not smoke.
2. At the end of each day (or more often if you work hard or walk far) examine your
hands and feet very carefully—or have someone else examine them. Look for cuts,
bruises, or thorns. Also look for spots or areas on the hands and feet that are red, hot,
swollen or show the beginnings of blisters. If you find any of these, rest the hands or
feet until the skin is completely normal again. This will help callous and strengthen the
skin. Sores can be prevented.
3. If you have an open sore, keep the part with the sore very clean and at rest until it
has completely healed. Take great care not to injure the area again.
4. Protect your eyes. Much eye damage comes from not blinking enough, because
of weakness or loss of feeling. Blink your eyes often to keep them wet and clean. If you
cannot blink well, close your eyes tightly often during the day, especially when dust
blows. Wear sun glasses with side shades, and maybe a sun hat. Keep
eyes clean and flies away.
If you do these things and begin treatment early, most deformities with leprosy
can be prevented. For more information about Hansen’s disease, see Disabled Village
Children, Chapter 26.