Having diabetes means you’re at much greater risk of developing foot problems.
This is because raised blood glucose, also known as blood sugar, can damage the sensation in your feet.
It can also affect your circulation, which can lead to you getting less blood supply to your feet. Without a good blood supply you may have problems with cuts and sores healing. You may also get cramps and pain in your legs or feet.
If you don’t get these problems treated, they could lead to foot ulcers, infections and, at worst, amputations. Most foot problems can be prevented with good, regular foot care.
During the coronavirus pandemic, most routine appointments like your annual diabetes review have been cancelled or postponed. You should be able to reschedule once things go back to normal.
In the meantime, follow your current routine including checking your feet daily, keep to a healthy diet and try to keep active. If you spot something new you're concerned about, like a cut or blister on your foot, call your GP straight away and explain your situation. If you can't get through, call 111 for advice.
If you're already having treatment for a foot problem and you don't have coronavirus symptoms, then your appointments should still carry on. If you're worried about going to your clinic or hospital at this time or want to check whether your appointment is still going ahead, contact your diabetes team or call the number on your appointment letter.
