When you think of diabetes, you probably think of blood sugar and insulin—but your feet might be the first place the disease shows itself. Here are 10 warning signs in your feet that could reveal an underlying problem.
Tingling or numbness in your toes
When high blood sugar damages the nerves in your feet, it can cause sensations like tingling, numbness, or the feeling of “pins and needles.”
Wounds that won’t heal
If even small cuts or blisters linger and don’t heal properly, it can be a red flag. Poor blood circulation in diabetes slows the healing process.
Burning pain in your feet
Sharp, stabbing, or burning pain in the feet—especially at night—may be a sign of diabetic nerve damage.
Dry and cracked skin
If the skin on your feet becomes dry, cracked, and rough, it could be because diabetes affects the nerves that regulate sweating.
Swollen feet or ankles
Swelling without a clear cause may indicate poor circulation, kidney issues, or infection—all common complications of diabetes.
Changes in foot shape
If your foot’s arch collapses or the foot feels unstable, it could be due to weakening bones and muscles from diabetes.
Cold feet all the time
Many people with diabetes experience cold feet even when the environment is warm. Reduced blood flow is usually the cause.
Nail problems
Thickened, discolored nails or ingrown toenails are more common in people with diabetes. Nerve damage may also make it harder to notice the problem early.
Dark spots or skin discoloration
Sudden redness, black patches, or color changes in the skin can signal infection or early signs of tissue death.
Foot infections that don’t go away
Sores that remain red, swollen, or oozing may require immediate medical attention. Diabetes makes it harder for your body to fight off infections.
This article is based on information from Newsner.dk