[tbo]

i have only been a diabetic for a year (type 2) and my two toenails (4th one on each foot) are turning black like i hit them with a hammer. only about 1/8 to 1/4 inch though, both my feet are always cold also
any advise?

 

[Terrie]

Hello Tbo...Welcome! :

You didn’t say how your sugars have been. Although cold hands
and/or feet can be caused by lack of blood circulation, particularly
in Diabetics, many Diabetics and non-diabetics also have this
symptom from other conditions.

Anyone can get bruises under the toenails. It can happen to athletes
particularly runners, walkers, gymnasts(many gymnasts usually wear
toe caps on their big toes now). Bruises can also occur to People who
on occasion or normally walk a lot, by a Person wearing ill-fitting shoes
and/or socks, loosely tied shoes, not trimming toenails properly, stubbing
their toe, to someone dropping something on their toe. It doesn’t take
much sometimes.

The foot can slide back and forth hitting the toe area and sides of the shoe.
Pressure in the feet also grows. This sometimes causes the nail bed to
separate from the toenail which can cause bleeding/bruise and sometimes
a blister. If you have a blister, it can lead to gangrene and a blood infection,
which you do not want.

If the toe area swells, is more painful after a day or 2 or feels heavier than usual and numb then you should see your Dr. If you have a blister, he/she will
probably drain it and prescribe an antibiotic for you.

I know always easier to say than do but if you have Diabetes, take precautions and don’t take any symptoms or injuries lightly. I hope that
it all clears up for you Very soon.