Diabetes has become very common in Indian households and is also increasing rapidly. It can impact people of any age group and cause serious health complications. It occurs when there is an abnormal rise in your blood sugar levels that can affect your kidneys and liver. But did you know that its symptoms can also be visible on your feet? Diabetes lowers the blood supply to the feet, which damages the nerves and causes them to lose feeling. This condition is known as diabetic neuropathy. You may develop several foot problems due to diabetes; thus, taking care of your feet becomes essential.
6 Signs Of Diabetes On Foot
Here are some signs on your feet that are caused due to diabetes.
Pain, Numbness Or Tingling Sensation In Legs
You may have pain, numbness or a tingling sensation in your legs and feet due to diabetic neuropathy. However, it can also occur due to a foot injury; therefore, you should get yourself checked to see if you have diabetes.
Foot Ulcers
You may develop foot ulcers as a result of diabetic neuropathy. It is an open wound that mainly develops on your foot's bottom. Foot ulcers can cause the skin to peel off in mild situations, but in more severe cases, they might result in amputation. Moreover, if you already have a diabetic foot ulcer, you should ensure to prevent the infection. You should avoid walking barefoot and clean your wounds by removing dead skin to prevent infection.
Corns Or Calluses
Diabetes can also lead to corns or calluses developing on your feet. A callus is an accumulation of hard skin on the bottom of the foot, whereas a corn is a buildup of hard skin close to a bony part of a toe or between toes. You should wear comfortable and fitted shoes to prevent this symptom.
Also Read: Homoeopathic Remedies For Treating Foot Corns Permanently, Expert Explains
Athlete's Foot
There are chances of developing an Athlete's foot when you have diabetes. It is a fungal infection that causes inflammation and blisters on your foot. It causes itching, burning, cracking, and redness on one foot or may even affect both feet. You should maintain the hygiene of your feet and avoid walking barefoot in places like gyms, pools, etc. Avoid keeping your foot wet for longer, and ensure you wear fitted shoes.
Fungal Infection Of Nails
Diabetes can also affect your toenails and cause a fungal infection known as onychomycosis. It results in discolouration of your toenails and makes them thick and brittle. It can cause serious complications and may also lead to amputation.
Also Read: Diabetes: 7 Easy Physical Activities You Can Do To Manage It
Foot Deformities
Diabetes can cause foot deformities as it weakens the muscles in your feet. It can lead to conditions like Charcot's foot, claw feet, hammertoes, or metatarsal heads on your feet.
Tips For Foot Care If You Have Diabetes
- You should always wash your feet with warm water to improve the condition of your feet.
- Check your feet for any sores, blisters, calluses, etc., so that the appropriate steps can be taken at the right time.
- Keep your feet moisturised, as diabetes can dry your feet.
- You should not walk barefoot and only wear shoes that fit you well.
- Quit smoking to prevent the poor flow of blood to your feet.
- You should protect your feet from heat and cold. Wear socks at night if you have cold feet.
