High blood sugar reduces moisture and damages sweat glands, especially around the heels.
6. Slow-Healing Cuts or Blisters
Elevated glucose impairs wound healing and increases infection risk.
7. Frequent Foot Infections
Fungal infections (athlete’s foot, toenail fungus) are more common in diabetes.
8. Swelling in Feet or Ankles
May indicate circulation problems, inflammation, or diabetic kidney involvement.
9. Foot Ulcers (Open Sores)
Often painless due to nerve damage—this makes them especially dangerous.
10. Changes in Foot Shape or Toe Deformities
Muscle weakness from nerve damage can cause claw toes or arch collapse.
11. Loss of Balance or Frequent Tripping
Reduced sensation affects proprioception (your sense of foot position).
12. Shiny Skin or Loss of Hair on Feet and Toes
A classic sign of poor blood flow.
