Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.
1
Is any of this happening now?
Call 911
Seek emergency help for black or blue skin on the foot, rapidly spreading redness, severe infection symptoms, or confusion with fever.
Sudden facial drooping, one-sided weakness, trouble speaking, severe chest discomfort, or sudden loss of coordination may be caused by an emergency such as a stroke or heart problem.
Do not assume these symptoms are diabetic neuropathy.
Other emergency signs, for anyone
Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
2
Is any of this happening?
Be seen today
Seek urgent, same-day medical care for:
A blister, cut, ulcer, or puncture wound on a numb foot
New redness, warmth, swelling, drainage, or a bad smell
A hot, swollen, or misshapen foot, even without pain
Rapidly worsening weakness or difficulty walking
Repeated dizziness, fainting, or inability to empty your bladder
3
Does any of this apply?
Book an appointment
Arrange a routine appointment if you develop persistent numbness, tingling, burning pain, balance problems, digestive changes, bladder symptoms, or sexual difficulties.
New symptoms deserve assessment because diabetes may not be the only possible cause.
Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Diabetes and nerve damage. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.