Although feet are the most distanced part of the body from your heart and spine, they are the first to manifest neural changes in the body.
That’s why it’s important to regularly monitor their appearance and sensation, so as to prevent any serious health problems.
1. Lack of hair on toes
Although most women look forward to having hairless toes, this may actually indicate problems with your circulation.
According to Dr. Carolyn Mekalun, an orthopedic surgeon, sudden loss of hair is a sign that your feet aren’t getting enough blood to support hair growth. There is a possibility that your heart isn’t pumping enough blood to your feet, so it’s a good idea to visit a doctor.
2. Foot spasms
Foot spasm is a common problem that may be a sign of a neural disorder, but more often it’s an indicator of dehydration or malnutrition. Every day, drink plenty of fluids, especially if you exercise, and it’s a good idea to increase your intake of foods rich in potassium, magnesium and calcium.
Dr. Carolyn Mekalun advises having a warm foot bath for immediate relief. While your feet are in the water, stretch your toes upwards.
3. Sores that won’t heal
Sores on your feet that won’t heal are a sign of diabetes. High blood sugar levels that have been out of control for a long time can lead to nerve damage, which is why diabetics can have a cut, or injury, and not feel any pain.
A sore that won’t heal can be a sign of skin cancer. Melanoma can occur anywhere on the body, even between the toes. Therefore, any visit at the dermatologist should include inspection of your feet, says Dr. Carolyn Mekalun.
4. Cold feet
Hypothyroidism is the most common cause of cold feet, which are impossible to warm. If you are over forty, it is possible that you have an underactive thyroid gland. This disease can also cause hair loss, dizziness, rapid gain weight, as well as depression. Simple blood tests may show whether you need treatment.
5. Enlarged toe
The rapid growth of the big toe, which turns red, irritated and swollen, requires immediate medical attention. Typical causes of this condition are gout, infection, arthritis, or some physical injury.
6. Numb toes or parts of your feet
Numbness in both feet is often a sign of diabetes, chronic alcoholism or the side effects of chemotherapy. But if you feel numbness in one foot, it is probably caused by a pinched nerve in your foot, or your back, which in turn can be caused by wearing improper footwear.
7. Gout
The bony bump on the joint at the beginning of the big toe is not the result of wearing high heels. On the contrary, it is a genetic deformity of the foot that may get worse by wearing inappropriate footwear.
8. Pain in the heel
Plantar fasciitis is the most common cause of severe pain in the heel. It usually occurs when you get up from bed, or you stand up from a chair. It can get worse by wearing improper footwear and neglect of regular foot exercise.
9. Flaking and itching feet
If your skin is itching and peeling, you probably have a yeast infection. This can be cured with appropriate antifungal cream and proper foot hygiene. The cause of itching can be skin diseases such as psoriasis, which can be determined with an examination by a dermatologist.
10. Yellow nails
Although this is sometimes a sign of aging, if it is accompanied by flaking or breaking of the nail, it can indicate a fungal infection that is easily treated with appropriate creams. Yellowing can also occur in women who regularly varnish their nails.