ADVERTISEMENT
3. Common Foot Symptoms Linked to Diabetes
Here are the most unusual and early signs in the feet that may indicate diabetes:
3.1 Numbness or Tingling (Peripheral Neuropathy)
- Often begins in the toes or soles
- May feel like pins and needles or “walking on cotton”
- Can progress to total loss of sensation
3.2 Burning or Sharp Pain
- Especially at night or after long periods of rest
- May be described as burning, stabbing, or electric sensations
3.3 Skin Changes
- Dry, cracked skin, particularly on heels
- Shiny or thin skin on the tops of feet
- Redness, swelling, or dark patches
3.4 Foot Deformities
- Hammertoes or bunions caused by nerve or muscle imbalance
- Claw-like toes or uneven arches
3.5 Slow-Healing Sores or Ulcers
- Wounds may take weeks or months to heal
- Can develop infection quickly due to poor circulation
3.6 Fungal Infections and Nail Problems
- Thickened, yellow, or brittle toenails
- Athlete’s foot or fungal infections between toes
3.7 Cold or Discolored Feet
- Bluish or pale toes indicate poor blood flow
- Warmth may indicate infection or inflammation
4. Why These Foot Symptoms Happen
The foot complications of diabetes are mainly due to:
🔹 4.1 High Blood Sugar
- Damages nerves over time (neuropathy)
- Weakens the immune system, making infections more likely
🔹 4.2 Reduced Circulation
- Narrowed arteries (peripheral artery disease) limit oxygen and nutrient supply to tissues
- Poor circulation slows healing and increases the risk of ulcers
🔹 4.3 Foot Deformities
- Nerve damage and muscle weakness can alter foot structure
- Pressure points develop, making the skin more vulnerable to sores
5. Risk Factors for Diabetic Foot Complications
Some factors increase the risk of foot problems in people with diabetes:
- Poorly controlled blood sugar
- Smoking, which further reduces circulation
- High blood pressure and cholesterol
- Obesity, increasing pressure on feet
- Previous foot ulcers or infections
- Prolonged standing or improper footwear
6. How to Spot Foot Problems Early
Early detection is key. Here’s how to monitor your feet at home:
🔹 6.1 Daily Foot Inspection
- Check for cuts, blisters, redness, or swelling
- Use a mirror to view the soles if needed
- Pay attention to toenails, corns, or calluses
🔹 6.2 Test Sensation
- Lightly press with a blunt object to check for numb areas
- Notice any tingling or burning sensations
🔹 6.3 Watch for Skin Changes
- Dryness, cracking, discoloration, or shiny skin
- Unusual temperature differences between feet
🔹 6.4 Observe Gait and Balance
- Difficulty walking or changes in stride may indicate nerve or muscle issues
ADVERTISEMENT
