Diabetic Foot Symptoms
What to do when someone with diabetes has a black area, smell, discharge, swelling or fever on the foot. An urgency guide.
The signs below may need prompt assessment in a diabetic foot. We explain what each may mean and what you can do as a first step. If you are unsure, you can use the foot check tool.
Black Toe or Foot (Possible Gangrene)
A black, dark purple or bruised area on the toe or foot of someone with diabetes can be a sign of tissue death. Causes and first steps.
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Foot Wound Smell, Discharge and Pus
A bad smell, pus or coloured discharge from a diabetic foot wound suggests infection. What it means, what to do at home and when it is urgent.
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Swollen, Red Foot With Fever
Swelling, warmth and redness in the foot of a person with diabetes can be infection, a clot or Charcot foot. When is it urgent, and what to do?
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Foot Numbness and Loss of Feeling
Numbness, tingling and loss of feeling in the feet may point to diabetic nerve damage. Why wounds go unnoticed, and what to do at home and at the doctor.
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Hot, Swollen Foot Without a Wound (Charcot Foot)
In diabetes, a hot, swollen and often painless foot with no wound may be Charcot foot. Why the first step is to stop walking on it, and how it is managed.
Read moreThis page is for general information only and does not replace an examination, diagnosis or treatment. In an emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department.