Some medical ailments can start out small, but if untreated can turn into serious problems, especially if you're a diabetic.

Diabetic Rick Green had a problem with his foot, but he didn't realize how serious it was at first because he really wasn't feeling any pain from it. "I had diabetic ulcer for roughly four years actually. In my case, I thought it was a regular blister and it just didn't heal."

Physician Joel Van Sickler explains, "If you develop diabetes and you don't control the diabetes, then you're potentially headed for trouble down the road."

Dr. Van Sickler says that for diabetics high sugar levels can cause serious health issues. One can even affect the nerves in your legs and feet. It's called diabetic neuropathy. "It really boils down to how well one's diabetic control is."

Dr. Van Sickler also says that people with diabetes can develop nerve problems at any time, but the longer a person has diabetes, the greater the risk. Different types of nerves can be affected but there's one thing all diabetics can do to prevent damage at all. "Monitor their blood sugars and it's very important that thy have normal blood sugar control."

The numbness that often occurs with neuropathy can mask serious health issues so be sure to see your doctor if your experiencing any problems in this area.

There are different types of neuropathies but the most common for diabetics affects the arms and legs, a burning sensation can be the first symptom of this condition.