Being multifaceted, diabetes usually affects several organs, and it seems that the feet are the ones that signal.
Diabetes can affect many parts of the body, and the feet are often one of the first places to show signs of trouble. Here, neuropathy caused by high blood sugar levels and inadequate blood circulation, two common effects of diabetes, can make foot problems an extremely important concern. Here are 10 diabetes-related foot symptoms.
1. Numbness or Tingling
New-onset neuropathy from diabetes is marked by either a loss of feeling in the foot or the abnormal sensation of ‘feeling needles ne’s feet. This ensues because high blood sugar causes numbness in the toes and feet, thereby reducing pain, heat, and injury sensations significantly.
2. Burning or Sharp Pain
Patients sense burning, stabbing, or electric-like pains in their feet. When these uncomfortable symptoms worsen at night, they can make sleeping difficult.
3. Slow-Healing Wounds or Sores
Diabetes may slow the healing of wounds and sores slow and be a reason for the responsiveness of the immune system. Consequently, the cuts, blisters, or sores that occur may worsen and get infected rapidly.
4. Swelling in the Feet or Ankles
Edema or water retention is another reason for swelling in the feet and ankles. Furthermore, complications with the blood and kidneys that are closely tied to diabetes may be the culprits of this condition.
5. Dry, Cracked Skin
High levels of glucose in the blood commonly come from dehydration, resulting in dry skin and crispiness, particularly on the feet. The consequence of open wounds is a primary infected wound risk factor.
6. Changes in Skin Color or Temperature
Diabetes is a disease that can alter the direction of your blood flow, and hence can cause discoloration (red, blue, or pale patches) or temperature changes in the feet. It should be noted that one foot may seem either more or less warm than the other.
7. Fungal Infections (Athlete’s Foot or Toenail Fungus)
Fungal growth is stimulated by warm, moist climates. Diabetes patients have higher chances of contracting a fungal infection, and itching, scaling, or thickened, discolored toenails are some of the symptoms that might occur.
8. Corns and Calluses
With the uneven pressure distribution that is the result of nerve damage, corns and calluses will develop at a higher rate. Do not think of trying to get rid of them on your own, as the unprofessional removal can become a source of infections.
9. Foot Deformities (Hammertoes or Charcot Foot)
Foot muscles may get weaker as a result of losing nerve force, and therefore, the toes become hammertoes (bent toes) or those with Charcot foot (a condition where bones fracture and joints collapse).
10. Hair Loss on Feet and Toes
The feet and toes may get hairless due to poor blood circulation. Seeing this is a sign of circulation problems if you have strange bald spots on the feet and toes.
Why Foot Care Is Crucial to People with Diabetic Disorders
Due to a lack of sensation caused by diabetes, there are chances of minor problems becoming major infections or ulcers if the feet are not cared for properly. To prevent such situations:
- Examine your feet daily to detect cuts, blisters, or other changes.
- Keep feet clean and moisturized (but remember not to put the lotion between toes).
- Put on properly fitting shoes and abstain from walking barefoot.
- Manage blood sugar levels to slow down nerve damage.
- Get your feet checked by a podiatrist regularly.
If you find any of these symptoms, don’t hesitate to seek the advice of your doctor. Early detection and proper treatment can help you avoid serious complications like infections or amputations.
