6 Early Symptoms Of Diabetic Foot Ulcers

By Vanshika Gaur
27 Jun 2025, 15:00 IST

Diabetic foot ulcers are open wounds that occur on the feet of people with diabetes. It happens when the blood sugar levels are poorly managed. However, to take precautions against it, here are a few early symptoms of diabetic foot ulcers. Tap to know them!

Persistent Numbness

People with diabetic foot ulcer may experience persistent numbness as high blood pressure may damage the nerves, leading to loss of sensation in the foot.

Pus In Socks

If you see pus in your socks or footwear, it may be an early sign of diabetic foot ulcer that has started leaking or draining.

Dry Skin

People with diabetes may experience reduced oil production in the body, making the skin dry or cracked, especially at the heels.

Unusual Redness Or Discolouration

Many people experience unusual redness or discolouration in their feet, especially in the heels and balls of feet. It usually happens due to poor blood circulation.

Odour

The diabetic foot ulcer can also cause an unusual odour, even without a visible dore. This odour can indicate tissue breakdown and bacterial growth.

Pain Or Burning Sensation

It can also cause pain or burning sensation in the feet, even while resting, as it damages the nerve and leads to shooting pain.

Information Credits

According to PubMed, early symptoms of diabetic foot ulcers include odour, redness, burning sensation, and more. It is advisable to consult a healthcare professional for personalised suggestions.