Many people dream about getting a tattoo. If you've recently been diagnosed with diabetes, though, you may wonder if it's still safe for you to get one. As long as your blood sugar levels are well controlled, you should be okay to get inked. However, there are a couple of things you need to prepare for before you head to the parlor.
Choose the Tattoo Site Carefully
One thing you might not realize yet is that diabetes can have a negative impact on your healing ability. High blood sugar levels damage the veins and nerves, which can cause poor circulation. This, in turn, can make it harder for white blood cells and other beneficial elements to get to the wound site, resulting in longer healing times.
This means people with diabetes have a higher risk of infection when they get tattoos, so it's critical you carefully choose where you get your tattoo. Make sure the parlor is clean and the artist uses a brand new needle for you. The shop should also sterilize the equipment and use disposable ink pots to avoid spreading diseases between customers. Lastly, only get your tattoo from a licensed and accredited inker.
It's also important to be careful about where you get the tattoo. You may want to avoid getting tattoos on your ankles, feet, shins, calves, or buttocks. Blood has to fight gravity to get back to your heart from these areas, so it may take longer to heal if you have poor circulation. You may be more prone to getting an infection in those areas due to this. However, every person's body is different. If you're fairly healthy and your doctor says it's safe for you to get a tattoo in these areas, then go for it. Just be certain to adhere strictly to the aftercare instructions to protect your health.
Be Prepared for Long Ink Times
Depending on the size and colorfulness, tattoos can take several hours to complete. In fact, large and intricate designs can take several sessions over a period of days or weeks to do. The primary concern with long ink times is that your blood sugar level may dip while you're waiting, putting you at risk for hypoglycemia. Many tattoo parlors don't allow people to eat in their shops, so you either need to arrange to take a food break or bring along glucose tablets to help keep your sugar up.
Also, sitting for long periods of time increases your risk of developing blood clots in your legs. Therefore, be sure to get up every hour or so and walk around for a few minutes to stimulate the circulation in your lower limbs.
For more information about getting a tattoo or to make an appointment to get inked, contact the best tattoo shops in your area.
Share7 August 2016
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