One of the greatest risks in diabetic foot is dismissing small changes and delaying care.
Health assessment should not be postponed if the wound enlarges, signs of infection develop, color changes or new loss of sensation occurs.
- A nonhealing or enlarging wound
- Increasing redness and swelling
- Discharge or an unpleasant odor
- Change in color or warmth
- New numbness or loss of sensation
Signs requiring prompt assessment
A new open wound, blister or skin loss; unexplained swelling, redness, increased warmth, discharge, unpleasant odor or color change requires professional assessment the same day, within one working day at the latest.
Emergencies
Call 112 or go to the nearest emergency department if the foot turns black, suddenly becomes cold or pale, signs of infection spread rapidly, or a foot wound is accompanied by fever, chills, altered consciousness or deterioration in general condition.
The purpose of seeking care early
Early assessment may help control the wound before it enlarges, prevent infection from spreading and reduce the need for more extensive intervention.
Preparing to seek care
Tell your healthcare team when the change began, whether the wound is enlarging, whether there is discharge or fever, and which medications you take.
Do not wait for a form in an emergency
For blackening, rapidly spreading redness, fever or deterioration in your general condition, call 112 or go to the nearest emergency department.
Planning to seek care
When arranging a consultation for a new foot problem, state when the change began and whether it is progressing rapidly. Do not postpone signs such as an open wound or new color change until a routine checkup. A telephone or photo consultation should not delay a necessary face-to-face examination.
Do not wait for a response to an online form if you have fever, marked fatigue, rapidly spreading redness or a foot that suddenly becomes cold. Go to the nearest emergency department if emergency assessment is needed. If your vision or mobility is limited, ask a family member for help seeking care and checking your feet daily.
Related content
Scientific sources
This information is for general education. The assessment and treatment appropriate for you are determined by a medical examination.
Further reading: NIDDK foot health · NICE NG19 · AAOS patient guide
