Proper foot care is essential when you’re living with diabetes. In this guide, Dr. Sara Bouraee, Dr. Jon Houseworth, Dr. Shruti Vyas, Dr. Sun Byun, Dr. Daria Piotrowski, and the team at Hampton Roads Foot and Ankle Specialists of Hampton and Williamsburg, VA, share how to identify foot infections so that you can seek diabetic foot care as soon as possible. 

Signs of Diabetic Foot Infections 

 Diabetes affects the whole body, but it can severely impact your ability to stay on your feet. Infections that go unnoticed have led to many amputations. However, this can be prevented. The team at Hampton Roads Foot and Ankle Specialists in Hampton and Williamsburg, VA, share the signs of diabetic foot infections that indicate the need for a trip to your podiatrist as soon as possible. 

Tenderness, Pain, or Discomfort 

 Diabetes affects the nerves, which often means that sufferers can’t feel any issues with their feet. However, if you do notice any type of pain, discomfort, or sensitivity, schedule a visit right away. 

Cold or Sweaty Feet 

 Are your feet chilly even though the temperature is warm? Or are they sweating when it’s cold? These are good indicators of an issue and should be checked as soon as possible. 

Any Changes or Openings 

 Cuts, blisters, sores, and other injuries often go unnoticed, especially when the nerves have been impacted. Unfortunately, diabetes also affects blood flow, which can slow down healing and leave an opening to become infected. If you notice any changes to your feet, seek care, as infection may have already set in. 

Discharge or Constant Bleeding 

 Sometimes cuts and injuries are hard to ignore, but not because you feel them. Instead, you notice something oozing out of them or that your socks or shoes are covered in blood. Both of these can indicate infection and issues that require professional care. 

Foul Odors 

 Infections often make themselves known through foul smells, but you might not always notice where the odor is coming from. If something doesn’t smell quite right around you or your home, check your feet first. You might notice open sores, pus draining from them, discoloration, or another issue. If so, visit your podiatrist as quickly as possible. 

Swelling 

 Issues like gangrene occur when an infection goes unnoticed and untreated. Unfortunately, it can lead to many symptoms, including swelling in the feet. Seek care as soon as possible if you notice any swelling. 

Let our diabetic foot professionals at Hampton Roads Foot and Ankle Specialists in Hampton and Williamsburg, VA, help diagnose your symptoms and determine the best course of treatment for your needs. Call (757) 200-3311 to schedule an appointment today.