That headline is misleading. Your feet can show some effects of diabetes, but they are not a reliable “blood sugar meter.” You cannot diagnose diabetes from foot symptoms alone.
12 symptoms worth paying attention to
People with diabetes may experience:
- Tingling or pins-and-needles in the feet
- Numbness or reduced sensation
- Burning or shooting pain
- Unusually cold feet
- Dry, cracked skin
- Persistent itching
- Slow-healing cuts or blisters
- Frequent foot infections
- Changes in skin color
- Swelling of the feet or ankles
- Foot ulcers or sores that don’t heal
- Loss of balance or weakness related to nerve damage
However, these symptoms can have many other causes, including circulation problems, nerve disorders, injuries, fungal infections, and nutritional deficiencies.
What actually checks your blood sugar?
The dependable way to determine whether you have diabetes or prediabetes is blood testing, such as an A1C test or fasting blood-glucose test. If you frequently have several of the symptoms above—especially numbness, wounds that aren’t healing, or recurrent infections—it’s sensible to speak with a healthcare professional and get tested.
Important: If you have a foot wound that is becoming red, swollen, hot, painful, draining pus, or turning dark, seek medical attention promptly.
