Feeling like your feet are “asleep”
Inability to feel temperature, pressure, or pain
Caused by peripheral neuropathy — nerve damage from high blood sugar
✅ A major red flag: You might not notice injuries.
2. Tingling or “Pins and Needles”
A crawling, prickling sensation, often worse at night
One of the earliest signs of nerve damage
May come and go at first, then become constant
📉 Common in both type 1 and type 2 diabetes.
3. Burning Pain
Sharp, burning, or electric-like pain in the soles or toes
Often worse at rest or at night
Can disrupt sleep and daily activities
✅ Not “just aging” — could be neuropathy.
4. Swelling in the Feet or Ankles
Fluid buildup due to poor circulation or kidney issues (common in diabetes)
May make shoes feel tight
Can be a sign of heart or kidney complications
⚠️ Especially concerning if one-sided or sudden.
5. Changes in Skin Color
Feet appear pale, blue, or red
Poor circulation reduces oxygen delivery
May indicate peripheral artery disease (PAD)
✅ A warning sign of reduced blood flow.
6. Cold Feet (Even in Warm Weather)
Reduced blood flow makes feet feel cold
Not relieved by socks or blankets
Often paired with numbness
❄️ Don’t dismiss it as “poor circulation” — get it checked.
7. Dry, Cracked Skin
High blood sugar reduces sweat production
Skin becomes dry, itchy, and prone to cracking
Cracks can become entry points for infection
✅ Especially around the heels.
8. Slow-Healing Sores or Cuts
Minor cuts, blisters, or scrapes take weeks to heal
Caused by poor circulation and nerve damage
Increases risk of infection or ulcers
🚨 A leading cause of diabetic foot ulcers and amputations.
