Diabetes is a lifelong condition that causes a person’s blood sugar level to become too high – and it can lead to foot issues. Here are the warning signs to look out for. Health watchdogs are sounding the alarm for Brits to keep an eye out for unexpected symptoms in their feet that could spell diabetes—a nasty condition causing sky-high blood sugar levels......Read The Full Article>>.....Read The Full Article>>
Type 1 diabetes remains a bit of a medical mystery with no clear cause, while type 2 is often seen in those carrying extra weight or not moving enough and can run in families. Spotting diabetes early is crucial for getting ahead of it, even though its tell-tale signs can pop up where you least expect them, like your feet.
Diabetes UK has issued a warning, saying: “Over time raised blood sugar levels, also known as blood glucose levels, can damage the small blood vessels that supply the nerves in your feet. This prevents essential nutrients from reaching the nerves. If the nerves in your feet are damaged, you can lose the feeling in your feet, known as peripheral neuropathy (nerve damage). This means you may not feel things properly and can damage your feet without noticing.”
The charity didn’t pull any punches when it added: “Damaged blood vessels also reduce the blood supply to your feet, meaning you may then have problems with cuts and sores healing. You may also get cramps and pain in your legs or feet.”
The charity encourages people to consult their doctor if they observe any of the following signs:
- Tingling sensation or pins and needles like numbness
- Burning pain
- A dull ache
- Loss of feeling in your feet or legs
- Swollen feet – you might notice that putting your shoes on or walking has become more difficult
- Your feet don’t sweat
- Cuts, wounds or sores that don’t heal
- Cramp in your calves when resting or walking
- Shiny, smooth skin on your feet
- Hair loss on your legs and feet.
Moreover, diabetes can cause nerve damage, leading to conditions such as:
- Toes that are bent into a claw shape, known as claw toe
- The joint on your toe pointing up instead of lying flat, known as hammer toe
- A build-up of thick layers of skin on the top or sides of your toes, known as corns
- A hard lump at the bottom of the big toe on the side which causes the big toe to point at an angle, known as a bunion.
The UK has seen a concerning rise in foot amputations linked to diabetes. Between 2015 and 2018, England reported 27,465 lower limb amputations due to diabetes, marking an 18.3% increase from the 2011-2014 period, reports Surrey Live.
This breaks down into an 8.8% rise in major amputations (below the knee) and a 22.4% increase in minor amputations (below the ankle). Diabetes UK stresses the importance of prompt action, stating: “A matter of hours can make the difference between losing and keeping a foot.”
The charity adds: “This is why it’s vital for all people living with diabetes to know how to look after their feet, to check them regularly to look out for the signs of foot problems and to know when to seek medical attention.”
