7. Changes in Foot Shape
- Hammertoes
- Collapsing arches (flat feet)
- Charcot foot (rare but serious — bones weaken and shift)
🩻 Caused by weakened muscles and joints from nerve damage.
8. Slow-Healing Sores or Ulcers
- Cuts, blisters, or calluses take weeks to heal
- May get infected easily
🩸 Poor circulation + weakened immunity = delayed recovery.
9. Cold Feet (Even in Warm Weather)
- Reduced blood flow makes feet feel icy
- Can happen even with warm socks
🌡️ A sign of peripheral artery disease (PAD), which is more common in people with diabetes.
10. Discoloration
- Red, blue, or purple tint to toes or feet
- Indicates poor oxygen delivery
🫀 Could signal circulation problems or inflammation.
11. Thickened or Discolored Toenails
- Yellowing, brittleness, or fungal infections
- Often mistaken for simple nail fungus — but may reflect underlying glucose imbalance
🔍 Fungal growth thrives in high-sugar environments.
12. Hair Loss on Feet or Legs
- Thinning or missing hair on lower legs/toes
- Due to reduced circulation
📉 Like plants without water — tissues struggle to thrive.
✅ Who Should Be Screened?
You’re at higher risk if you:
- Are overweight or obese
- Have a family history of type 2 diabetes