People with diabetes are more susceptible to developing sores on the bottom of their feet, including non-healing wounds which may lead to ulcers. Ulcers form due to a combination of factors, such as poor circulation, high blood sugar (hyperglycemia) or ill-fitting shoes, as well as lifestyle factors like alcohol and tobacco use.
Symptoms may go unnoticed until the ulcer has become infected, because many diabetics have lost the ability to feel pain in their feet due to nerve damage (neuropathy). One of the first signs you may see is drainage on your socks, as well as swelling, red or black discoloration and odors.