High blood sugar will damage blood vessels over time. When high levels of sugar are continuously in the blood, the blood vessels become thicker and less flexible, causing poor circulation. Poor circulation can impair healing, especially on the feet and lower legs. High blood sugar also causes higher levels of fat in the bloodstream, which can clog and narrow the interior of blood vessels. A partial blockage can deprive vital organs such as the heart of oxygen and nutrients. A complete blockage can result in a heart attack or stroke.

Symptoms of poor circulation include:

• tingling in the feet and hands
• cold fingers and toes
• bluish-tinted skin
• slow-healing wounds

If you notice any of these symptoms call your physician.

The Action Medical Research study has found a link between oxygen deficiency in skin tissue and the formation of leg ulcers in people with a circulatory problem known as peripheral vascular disease. Diabetes sufferers are particularly susceptible to developing this condition.

This is the first time that researchers have looked at the changes occurring in the skin before the ulcers actually develop. The findings provide a new understanding about how a poor blood supply results in the formation of abnormal collagen; the substance that gives skin its strength, and how this can lead to extremely painful and disabling leg ulcers.