This practical guide helps you safely choose between a routine appointment, same-day clinic contact and emergency help for a new foot finding.
For detailed clinical warning signs, visit “When to See a Doctor for Diabetic Foot”; use the checklist on this page when seeking care.
- A new or nonhealing wound
- Redness, swelling, discharge or an unpleasant odor
- Sudden change in color or warmth
- Increasing loss of sensation or new pain
Contact the clinic the same day
For an open wound, new discharge, unpleasant odor, spreading redness, increased warmth or swelling, seek professional assessment the same day, within one working day at the latest. Call the clinic or use an appropriate emergency healthcare service instead of waiting for an appointment form response.
Circulation warning signs
A foot that suddenly looks pale, blue or black, marked coldness, new pain at rest or rapidly increasing symptoms should be assessed promptly for circulation problems.
Apparently minor problems
If you notice an ingrown toenail, callus, crack, blister or skin damage, promptly contact a trained healthcare professional instead of waiting and watching, particularly when sensation or circulation is impaired.
When is emergency help needed?
Go to an emergency department or call 112 for rapidly worsening general condition, altered consciousness, spreading infection with high fever or suspected sudden severe loss of circulation.
If in doubt, do not wait
If you are unsure how serious symptoms are, contact your healthcare team the same day; seek emergency help if they worsen rapidly.
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Scientific sources
This information is for general education. The assessment and treatment appropriate for you are determined by a medical examination.
