Strange Foot Symptoms Could Signal Dangerous Condition Doctors Warn Brits

Brits are being warned to look out for unusual changes in their feet which could be an early sign of diabetes. The condition, which causes dangerously high blood sugar levels, is lifelong for many people and can lead to serious complications if not spotted early.

Type 1 diabetes has no clear cause, while type 2 is often linked to being overweight or not getting enough exercise, although it can also run in families. Experts stress that spotting the warning signs quickly can make a big difference, and some of the most surprising symptoms can show up in your feet, reported the Mirror.

Diabetes UK explains: “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 stops essential nutrients 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.

“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.”

Doctors urge people to see their GP if they notice any of the following: tingling or pins and needles, burning pain, a dull ache, loss of feeling in the feet or legs, swelling that makes shoes tight, cuts or sores that do not heal, lack of sweating in the feet, cramps in the calves, shiny or smooth skin, or hair loss on the legs and feet.

Diabetes can also damage the toes, leading to claw toe where toes bend unnaturally, hammer toe where joints point upwards, corns from thick layers of skin, and bunions which cause the big toe to angle inwards.

The risk of serious complications is rising. Between 2015 and 2018 there were 27,465 diabetes-related lower limb amputations in England, an increase of more than 18 per cent from 2011 to 2014. Major amputations below the knee rose by nearly 9 per cent, while minor amputations below the ankle jumped by more than 22 per cent.

Diabetes UK warns that delays in treatment can have devastating consequences: “A matter of hours can make the difference between losing and keeping a foot. 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.”

Aside from foot problems, there are other key symptoms of diabetes to be aware of. These include feeling extremely thirsty, needing to urinate more often especially at night, feeling very tired, unexplained weight or muscle loss, itching around the genitals or repeated bouts of thrush, and blurred vision.

Experts stress that anyone noticing these signs should contact their GP straight away. Early diagnosis and treatment can reduce the risk of serious complications and make managing the condition easier in the long run.