Many people pay little attention to their feet until something feels off yet subtle changes there can sometimes reveal deeper health concerns before they become obvious elsewhere. Supervising pharmacist Niamh McMillan from the Superdrug chain recently highlighted one such clue that often gets dismissed as minor. She explained to The Express how cracked heels deserve a closer look because they might link to undiagnosed diabetes in certain cases. Our bodies send signals in unexpected places and feet turn out to be surprisingly informative when it comes to circulation and nerve health.
McMillan notes that high blood sugar levels damage the small blood vessels supplying nerves in the feet. Nutrients then struggle to reach those areas leading to peripheral neuropathy where sensation gradually fades. As a result injuries happen without notice and wounds heal much more slowly due to impaired blood flow. This combination creates risks that start out looking harmless but can escalate fast if left unchecked.
Small cuts or cracks on the heels that refuse to improve within a few days stand out as a key warning sign. McMillan advises checking for any redness warmth or swelling nearby since even mild inflammation can turn serious in people with elevated glucose. Tingling numbness or a burning sensation in the feet adds another layer worth monitoring closely. These issues arise because damaged vessels limit both nourishment and repair processes in the lower extremities.
It helps to remember that cracked heels alone do not always signal diabetes and simple dry skin often causes them instead. Still when they pair with other foot changes it becomes wise to speak with a doctor without delay. Diabetes UK outlines additional indicators such as a prickling pins and needles feeling or dull aches in the legs. Burning pain loss of sensation swelling or reduced sweating in the feet also fit the pattern along with calf cramps during rest or walking.
Shiny smooth skin on the feet combined with thinning hair on the lower legs rounds out the list of potential clues. McMillan urges prompt medical advice especially if wounds show signs of trouble or if multiple symptoms appear together. Early attention can prevent complications that affect mobility and overall quality of life down the road. Simple observation during routine care like applying lotion or changing socks can make all the difference.
Diabetes develops when blood glucose stays too high for extended periods. The British National Health Service lists frequent thirst more trips to the bathroom than usual extreme fatigue and unexplained weight loss among the classic signs. Type one form most often appears in childhood though it can emerge later and cannot yet be prevented through lifestyle alone. Type two tends to connect more strongly with daily habits and may respond well to adjustments in diet activity and medical guidance.
McMillan emphasizes staying calm while remaining proactive because many foot issues resolve easily with basic care. Consulting a professional brings clarity and peace of mind when uncertainty lingers. Organizations tracking diabetes stress how catching the condition sooner improves management and reduces long term risks to nerves circulation and healing. Feet truly act as windows to hidden aspects of wellness that reward regular checks.
Have you spotted any unusual heel changes or foot symptoms lately that made you pause. Share your thoughts in the comments.
