Call the doctor if you notice any of the following foot problems:
new areas of redness
areas of darkening on the skin
swelling
cuts
scratches
blisters
soft areas of the skin and over the heels
If you care for a person with diabetes mellitus, a history of a foot ulcer, loss of feeling in the feet, bony deformities of the feet, or thick or ingrown toenails, always have their doctor look at their feet during each visit.
Have the person take off their shoes and socks at every doctor’s visit.
Have a podiatrist or physician test a diabetic person’s feet at least once a year for loss of feeling.
Tell the doctor if you have noticed the person walking differently or complaining of pain, numbness or tingling of the feet.
Tell the doctor if the person regularly sees a podiatrist for foot care. If you need the name of a podiatrist for the person you care for, your doctor can refer you to someone that is in your area.
