10 early signs of diabetes that can appear in your feet

Diabetes can be a sneaker. Many associate the disease with blood sugar numbers and insulin pens, but it hits far wider than that – and especially the feet stand for shots. Here, there is a risk of serious complications that can lead to infections, chronic wounds and, in the worst case, amputation.

Too high blood sugar can cause both reduced blood circulation and damaged nerves, and therefore the feet often become the place where the danger signals first appear. It’s not just about cosmetic genes – it’s about quality of life and health.

The health clinic Cleveland Clinic have shared 10 important signs that your feet may be affected by diabetes – and what you need to be aware of:

1. Cold feet
Does your toes constantly feel like they’ve been on a winter bathing trip? Poor blood circulation due to diabetes can make your feet feel icy – even in summer sandals.

2. Redness or dark spots on the skin
Sudden color changes – especially dark or black areas – may be a sign of severe infection or beginning cold. It requires emergency medical attention.

3. Wounds that will not heal
A small wound that refuses to go away is not just an annoyance – it’s a potential danger signal. Slow healing is typically with poor blood circulation and impaired immune system.

4. Dry and cracked skin
When nerves and sweat glands fail, the skin begins to crack. Cracks in the skin can become input for infections and it is not something to ignore.