These lesser-known signs could signal that your blood sugar levels are too high.
Brits are warned to keep an eye out for some unusual symptoms appearing in the feet could indicate a dangerous condition. Diabetes is a serious and frequently lifelong condition that leads to excessively high blood sugar levels.
Whilst the exact cause of type 1 diabetes remains unknown, type 2 diabetes is often associated with factors including excess weight and insufficient physical activity. Nevertheless, it can also be hereditary.
As with any medical condition, the earlier diabetes symptoms are identified, the quicker medical assistance can be sought. Yet these warning signs may manifest in some unexpected areas.
Due to elevated blood sugar levels, the feet represent one area of the body that can sustain considerable damage. Diabetes UK states: “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.
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“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.”
The charity advises people to consult their GP if they observe any of the following indicators:
- 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
Diabetes can also cause nerve damage in the toes, leading to conditions like :
- 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
In recent years, foot amputations have become increasingly prevalent in the UK. From 2015 to 2018, there were 27,465 lower limb amputations related to diabetes in England, marking a significant increase of 18.3 per cent from 2011 to 2014.
Major amputations, defined as below the knee, rose by 8.8 per cent, while minor amputations, defined as below the ankle, increased by 22.4 per cent.
Diabetes UK added: “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.”
Other signs of diabetes to look out for include:
- Feeling extremely thirsty
- Urinating more often than usual, especially at night
- Experiencing extreme fatigue
- Weight loss and loss of muscle mass
- Itching around the penis or vagina, or recurrent bouts of thrush
- Blurred vision
If you notice any symptoms of diabetes, it’s important to consult your GP.