Diabetes: Know the Early Warning Signs

Diabetes is a disease that affects over 29 million Americans. What’s more, 8 million patients are not yet aware that they have this disease which can have a significant affect on your feet and the rest of your body. At Pasco-Hernando Foot & Ankle, we know that the early signs of diabetes may first show up in your feet. For that reason, we want patients to be proactive and informed about changes in their feet and legs that may signal the early stages of diabetes.

Hopefully, periodic self-exams are part of your home foot care regimen. Looking over your feet regularly makes it easier to spot changes that can indicate a potential foot problem. Symptoms you may notice in your feet and legs that can indicate diabetes include:

●        Pain in your legs

●        Loss of feeling or unusual sensations such as burning, tingling or numbness in the feet or toes

●        Changes in skin color

●        Toenail problems such as crumbling, discoloration or other symptoms of fungal nails; ingrown toenails

●        Severely dry skin and cracking, especially in the heel area

●        Swelling in the ankles and feet

●        Open sores, cuts or wounds that are taking a long time to heal

●        Bleeding calluses or corns

Take Action

If you notice any of the above signs, it’s time to contact the foot doctors at our Spring Hill (352 683-5799) or Hudson (727-868-2128) office as soon as possible. Our podiatrists, Dr. Lawrence J. Kales and Dr. Alexis Kreplick, will examine your feet and determine if the symptoms you are experiencing are due to diabetes or another podiatric condition. The good news is that if you do have diabetes, your podiatrist will be a partner in your care and diabetes can be successfully managed. Don’t ignore unusual symptoms in your feet—seek evaluation and treatment promptly for best outcomes.