10 Signs of a Bacterial Infection

Minor cuts and abrasions are common. Nothing drastic typically happens if properly cleaned and bandaged, but for people with diabetes or who have high blood glucose levels, they have a harder time fighting off infections from minor cuts. The first line of defense is proper cleaning of the wound so infection doesn't set in on the foot. It is possible to get a bacterial infection on the foot. If you notice any of the following symptoms happening to your foot, make an appointment right away to treat a possible bacterial infection or other ailment you may be experiencing.

10 signs of bacterial infection on your feet:

• Increased pain, swelling, redness, tenderness, or heat.
• Red streaks extending from the affected area.
• Discharge or pus from an area on the foot.
• Foot or ankle symptoms that do not improve after two weeks of treatment with a nonprescription product.
• Spreading of an infection from one area of the foot to another, such as under the nail bed, skin under the nail, the nail itself, or the surrounding skin.
• Thickening toenails that cause discomfort.
• Heel pain accompanied by a fever, redness (sometimes warmth), or numbness.
• Tingling in the heel; persistent heel pain without putting any weight or pressure on your heel.
• Pain that is not alleviated by ice or over-the-counter painkillers (such as aspirin, ibuprofen or acetaminophen).
• Diabetics with poor circulation who develop Athlete's Foot.