General Surgery in Lagos
Diabetic Foot Ulcer
The signs, what causes it, and when to see a general surgery specialist in Lagos.
Signs to look for
Diabetic Foot Ulcer
- A wound, blister or crack on the foot that is not healing
- Redness, warmth or swelling of the foot
- Pus or a bad smell from a wound
- Skin turning dark, blue or black
- Numbness, burning or tingling in the feet
Diabetes damages the nerves in the feet, so a cut, blister, burn or tight shoe goes unnoticed, and narrows the arteries, so wounds heal slowly. A small wound can become an ulcer, then a deep infection or gangrene within days. In Nigeria many diabetic foot problems reach hospital late, after weeks of home remedies, hot water soaks or herbs, often because people fear amputation. Seen early, most diabetic foot ulcers heal and most feet are saved. Delay is what leads to amputation.
Medically reviewed by Dr Debo Odulana, Founder and Chief Executive, Mezo. Last reviewed . This page is general information, not a diagnosis. Care is decided with you after an examination.
Symptoms
- A wound, blister or crack on the foot that is not healing
- Redness, warmth or swelling of the foot
- Pus or a bad smell from a wound
- Skin turning dark, blue or black
- Numbness, burning or tingling in the feet
- Fever or high blood sugar readings with a foot wound
When to See a Doctor
Go to a hospital emergency department today if a diabetic foot is red, hot and swollen, smells, is leaking pus, has skin turning black, or if you have a fever, vomiting or confusion with a foot wound. See a doctor within a day or two for any new wound, blister or ulcer on the foot that is not healing, even if it does not hurt. Have your feet checked by a health worker at least once a year if you have diabetes.
Treatment options
- Urgent antibiotics and blood sugar control for an infected foot
- Cleaning and removal of dead tissue (debridement), and drainage of pus
- Taking pressure off the ulcer with rest, special shoes or a cast
- Regular dressings by a trained nurse
- An X-ray to check for bone infection, and a check of the blood flow
- Treatment of blocked leg arteries where needed
- Amputation of a toe or part of the foot only when it cannot be saved, to protect the rest of the leg
What it costs on Mezo
Starting cash prices for the treatments used for this condition.
Common Questions
Should I soak my foot in hot water or salt water?
No. A numb foot cannot feel heat, and many Nigerians burn their feet this way. Keep the wound clean, dry and covered, and see a doctor.
Will the doctor cut off my leg?
Most diabetic foot ulcers seen early heal without amputation. Coming late, after the infection has spread, is what makes amputation more likely.
How do I protect my feet?
Look at both feet every day, including between the toes and the soles, using a mirror or a family member. Never walk barefoot, wear shoes that fit, keep blood sugar controlled, and do not cut corns yourself.
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General Surgery in Lagos →General Surgery in Abuja →General Surgery in Port Harcourt →General Surgery in Jos →General Surgery in Ibadan →Sources and further reading
The guidelines and patient information this page is checked against. Care in Nigeria follows the same evidence; what differs is the price and where it is done.
- Diabetic foot problems: prevention and management (NG19). National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE). Clinical guideline.
- Diabetes. NHS. Patient information.
Links last checked 3 November 2026.
Medical Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment.