Diabetes that is not well controlled can lead to serious complications. It can damage nerves and blood vessels anywhere in the body, including the legs and feet. The good news is that by keeping blood sugar levels in check with diet, exercise and medication, many common complications can be avoided. In addition, it is important to be on the lookout for diabetic related foot symptoms and to seek medical attention as soon as they appear.
Numbness and Loss of Sensation
High blood sugar levels over time can cause physical damage to the nerves in the legs and feet. Damage to the nerves can cause foot pain, numbness and tingling sensations, claims the American Diabetes Association. It may also cause a loss of sensation in the feet which can make walking and maintaining balance difficult. This loss of sensation may also inhibit the ability to know if the foot is cut or injured. In severe cases, nerve damage can lead to the feet or toes becoming deformed. To prevent diabetic neuropathy, it is important to test blood sugar levels often and follow a doctor's orders for keeping it under control.
Cuts That Do Not Heal
Poorly controlled diabetes can also damage blood vessels in the legs and feet and cause them to become more narrow. This restricts blood flow, which means that cuts and sores may heal slowly or not at all. Even minor cuts can develop into ulcers and turn onto a serious infection, warns the Mayo Clinic. In severe cases, an infection can lead to gangrene, which may require a foot to be amputated. To help prevent this complication, individuals with diabetes need to check their feet daily for cuts and sores and then treat them right away.
Corns, Calluses and Blisters
Since the nerve damage with diabetes can lead to deformities of the foot, areas of the foot may begin to rub against shoes. If there is a loss of sensation, a person with diabetes may not feel the foot rubbing. In addition, uncontrolled high blood sugar can cause the skin to dry out. Both of these situations can make the feet more susceptible to corns, calluses, blisters and bunions. Dry skin can crack, increasing the risk for infections and athlete's foot. If foot deformity is a concern, a physician can prescribe specially shaped shoes to protect the feet.
