Cracked heels may seem like nothing more than a cosmetic nuisance, but experts warn they could be a red flag for something far more serious: undiagnosed diabetes.
Diabetes is a condition that causes blood glucose (sugar) levels to become too high.
According to Mayo Clinic, symptoms include constant thirst, frequent urination, blurry vision, slow-healing sores, fatigue, and unintentional weight loss.
Type 1 diabetes is usually diagnosed in childhood and cannot be prevented, while Type 2 can sometimes be delayed or prevented with lifestyle changes and treatment.
Niamh McMillan, pharmacy superintendent at Superdrug, explained to The Express that your feet "can reveal a lot about your overall health," and that there are several symptoms "that might seem minor but could indicate something more serious".
One of the biggest warning signs to watch for, she said, is cracked heels or wounds that don’t heal.
“If small cuts or sores on your feet aren't healing within a few days, then this could be a red flag,” McMillan warned.
“Diabetes can reduce blood flow to the feet, which delays the healing process and can increase the risk of complications.”
Raised blood sugar levels can damage the small blood vessels that supply nerves in the feet.
Mayo Clinic explains that when these blood vessels are damaged, essential nutrients can’t reach the nerves - leading to peripheral neuropathy, or nerve damage.
That can cause a range of issues, from tingling and numbness to a burning sensation in the feet.
“A frequent symptom of diabetes is peripheral neuropathy, nerve damage caused by high blood sugar levels.
"This can lead to tingling, numbness, or even a burning feeling in the feet,” McMillan outlined.
“It often goes unnoticed at first, but it’s one of the earliest signs of nerve damage and should always be discussed with a healthcare professional.”
She also cautioned that “even mild inflammation around a crack or cut can quickly become serious for people with diabetes," adding: "If you notice any redness, warmth, or swelling around a wound on the foot, seek medical advice immediately."
Diabetes UK has shared that other symptoms of diabetes-related foot problems include a dull ache or loss of feeling in the feet or legs, swollen feet, shiny or smooth skin, cramping in the calves when resting or walking, and even hair loss on the legs and feet.
While cracked heels can sometimes be harmless and caused by simple dryness, McMillan stressed the importance of paying attention to them - especially if you haven’t been tested for diabetes.
“If you haven't been tested for diabetes and are experiencing any of these signs, it's worth speaking to a healthcare professional,” she said.