Numbness: A common symptom experienced by those with diabetes is numbness in the legs and feet. This can occur due to diabetic neuropathy, where high blood sugar levels cause damage to the nerve fibers.
Tingling Sensations: Along with numbness, tingling or a sensation of "pins and needles" in the legs or feet can also indicate nerve damage from high blood sugar levels.
Swelling: Diabetes can cause poor circulation and fluid retention, leading to swelling in the legs and feet. This can be exacerbated if kidney damage (nephropathy) is also present.
Cramps: Leg cramps are frequent in individuals with diabetes, which may be due to electrolyte imbalances, nerve damage, or inadequate blood flow.
Pain: Diabetes can lead to a kind of nerve damage known as painful diabetic neuropathy, where the individual experiences burning pain, especially at night.
Changes in Skin Color: High blood sugar levels can lead to changes in skin coloration on the legs. The skin may appear shinier or darker in some areas, indicative of changes in blood circulation.
Coldness: The extremities, including the legs, may feel unusually cold to the touch, which is a result of poor blood circulation often associated with diabetes.
Slow Healing Wounds: High blood sugar levels impair the body’s ability to heal, so any cuts or wounds on the legs may heal very slowly.
Loss of Hair: Loss of leg hair can be a sign of poor blood circulation associated with diabetes.