Open wound / discharge
Diabetic foot infection
A new wound, unpleasant odor, discharge or surrounding redness may require same-day assessment.
Symptom guide · 5 short questions
Notice changes early. Take action at the right time.
Use five short questions to assess when to seek care.
Answers are not saved
About 2 minutes
Includes emergency guidance
01
Wound / infection
02
Circulation
03
Charcot / deformity
Why does it matter?
The absence of pain does not mean there is no problem.
Diabetes-related loss of sensation can allow wounds, infections or bone and joint problems to progress with less pain. Assess new changes alongside appearance, warmth, color, discharge and general condition.
Coldness / color change
Poor circulation
Pallor, a bluish color, coldness or a nonhealing wound requires assessment of blood flow.
Warm / swollen / changing foot shape
Charcot foot
Particularly with loss of sensation, reduce weight-bearing and seek specialist advice the same day, even if there is little pain.
Deep / recurring wound
Osteomyelitis
A deep wound close to bone or recurring discharge may be investigated for bone infection.
Personalized guidance
Complete the five questions.
A “yes” answer does not by itself establish a diagnosis. The guide explains when to seek care based on the most important warning sign in your answers.
If your general condition is deteriorating rapidlyDo not wait to finish the guide; call 112 or go to an emergency department.
Next step
Save time by preparing for your consultation.
Preparing the following information helps the clinical situation be understood more quickly at the initial assessment.
01
When did it start?
Note the date the wound or change was first noticed and how it has progressed.
02
Previous procedures
Prepare details of dressings, antibiotics, operations and previous wounds/amputations.
03
Tests and medications
Bring your current medication list and any X-rays/MRI scans, culture results, vascular studies and blood results.
04
Footwear and devices
Bring your usual shoes, insoles or offloading device to the consultation.
An early consultation, a clearer plan
Arrange an assessment instead of guessing the cause of your symptom.
Submit an appointment request or contact the clinic directly. Photos and health documents should be shared only through the secure portal after an appointment.
