How to Detect an Early-Stage Diabetic Foot Ulcer

Modern medicine recognizes the importance of early-stage detection. When issues are addressed early on, they are less expensive and easier to treat. They have fewer impacts on health. 

Early detection can also apply to an early-stage diabetic foot ulcer. Without the proper treatment, you may notice early stages of gangrene on foot. It can even lead to an amputation. 

But if you catch early diabetes feet, you improve your chances of full recovery.

What is a Diabetic Foot Ulcer?

A diabetic foot ulcer typically starts with a wound on the foot that may be caused by tight shoes. However, if you have diabetes, the wound will be slow to heal. If left untreated, it could lead to gangrene foot early stages or amputation. 

What are the Signs of Diabetic Foot Early Stages?

Swelling

 Swelling is one of the first signs of diabetic foot early stages. Swelling is likely to occur around the wound. You should check your feet for swelling every day. 

Note that swollen feet do not necessarily constitute early-stage diabetes feet. Swelling can occur for any reason including ill-fitting shoes. However, if your shoes don’t fit well, you should address the issue. The shoe can irritate your foot and a wound may form leading to early-stage diabetic sores.

Warmth and Redness

You may notice early-stage red feet diabetes or burning feet prediabetes as the wound may feel warm to the touch. These could be signs you are developing an early-stage diabetic foot infection. It could also be a sign of foot early-stage diabetic neuropathy. 

Drainage on Your Shoes or Socks

Check your shoes and socks for signs of pus and blood. These symptoms could indicate a stage 1 diabetic foot ulcer. Do not hesitate to contact a medical professional if you notice drainage. It could indicate that your ulcer has become infected.

Skin Discoloration

Diabetics often have poor circulation due to damaged blood vessels and artery disease. The condition could cause the diabetic ulcer to turn blue, red, purple, or bronze. The discoloration could indicate gangrene early stages and should be addressed immediately.

Fever and Chills

People with an early-stage foot ulcer may develop a fever and chills and their body attempts to fight infection.

Blisters, Calluses, and Corns

Blisters, calluses, and corns can easily develop into an early-stage diabetic foot ulcer on toe, or on another part of your foot. Treat these wounds before they become bigger problems. Corns can be soaked in warm water. All wounds should be cushioned and covered to prevent them from worsening.

Athlete’s Foot

Athlete’s Foot is a fungal infection more likely to occur in warm, damp environments. It causes skin to become dry and cracked increasing the risk of early-stage dry feet diabetes. Talk to your medical provider to determine the best Athlete’s Foot treatment. Address the condition before it develops into an early-stage diabetes ulcer. 

Foul Odor

A foul odor can indicate that you have an infection, beginning gangrene, or Athlete’s Foot, a precursor to diabetic foot ulcers. If you notice a bad smell emanating from your feet, inspect it to determine its cause. If there are open wounds, you may want to see a doctor.

How to Prevent Early-Stage Diabetic Foot Ulcers

You should look for a stage 1 foot ulcer before it turns into a bigger problem, but it’s even better to prevent it altogether. You can reduce the symptoms of early diabetes feet by: 

• Wearing the Right Shoes: Comfortable shoes will prevent corns and blisters that can lead to early-stage diabetic foot ulcer stage 1.  
• Manage Diabetes: Eat a healthy diet and follow your recommended diabetes treatment to prevent a diabetes early-stage diabetic foot ulcer. 
• Care for Your Toenails: Cut your toenails straight and avoid sharp edges to prevent them from digging in and causing wounds that can lead to early-stage diabetic toes. 
• Avoid Smoking and Drinking: These bad habits can increase the risk of diabetic foot beginning stages. 
• Get Frequent Medical Checkups: Talk to your provider to ensure your diabetes is under control. You should also schedule a visit with a podiatrist and plan regular vascular screening to ensure circulatory conditions don’t become serious. 

FAQs

Why Does Diabetes Affect Feet?

Diabetes causes high blood sugar levels that can damage the nerves and blood vessels reducing circulation to the feet. As a result, diabetics are often unable to feel an early-stage abscess on foot. Without the proper treatment, the wound may become infected. Nerve damage can also affect foot muscles causing changes in foot shape that make wounds more likely to occur.

Can Prediabetes Cause Foot Problems?

Yes, you may notice foot problems before diabetes fully develops including nerve damage and reduced blood flow. You may experience a blood sugar early-stage foot ulcer telling you it’s time to make lifestyle changes to avoid full-blown diabetes.