Do you know that a sudden change in your feet’s appearance can indicate a number of health issues?
Most of us often disregard the condition of our feet. But noticeable changes in our feet can be indicators of wider health problems such as gout, diabetes, hypothyroidism, or even lung condition, according to Jake Heath, a podiatrist from One Wellness Clinic in Wimpole Street, London.
Thus, it is important to look for signs and symptoms of some health conditions in our feet.
1. Cold Feet
You could either be suffering from hypothyroidism or Raynaud’s disease if you have chilly hands or feet. Individuals with hypothyroidism, which is known as an underactive thyroid gland, often experience tiredness, aching muscles, weight gain as well as depression. Raynaud’s disease, which is characterised by the hypersensitivity of the blood vessels in the toes and fingers to temperature, smoking, stress, and medication. People suffering from this condition must avoid extreme temperatures.
2. Enlarged Big Toe
Do you find your big toe unusually large? Then you probably have a gout which is characterised by a “build-up of razor-sharp uric acid crystals in a joint”. This condition can be brought about by high protein diet, some medications, by being overweight, or genetic factors. Shift to a low-protein diet, try to lose weight and drink lots of water in order to combat gout.
3. Club-shaped Nails
Health explains that lung, cardiovascular or gastrointestinal problems “can lead to the clubbed appearance of all the nails on the toes and fingers”. The cut in the blood oxygen levels can lead to change in the shape of the nails.
4. Red Ulcers or Numbness
Experiencing persistent numbness and/or tingling in the toes can be a symptom of type 2 diabetes. Other symptoms include weight loss, tiredness, frequent urination, and persistent thirst.
5. Hairless Toes
People with toes totally devoid of hair may be battling a peripheral vascular disease. Hair will not usually grow if the heart is struggling to pump blood affecting circulation.
6. Sore Toe Joints
Having sore and tender joints that don’t move well as it should may be a sign of rheumatoid arthritis. People suffering from this type of arthritis have swelling and fluid in their joints.
7. Thickened, Crumbling, or Discolored Nails
Affecting 1-2% of the population, psoriasis is a chronic skin condition brought about by an overactive immune system. According to Heath, half of patients suffering from psoriasis will exhibit nail problems. People with this condition can take oral medications, use steroid creams, or undergo light therapy.