Health

Foot health: From cold feet, pain and blue toes – what your feet reveal about your health


The human body is such an impressive entity and often holds many clues as to one’s health. The feet are an often-overlooked body part but could reveal a lot about a person’s health and even warn of some diseases. What can your feet reveal about your health?

If your toes are always cold, one reason could be poor blood flow, a circulatory problem sometimes linked to smoking, high blood pressure, or heart disease, said Webmed.

The health site continued: “The nerve damage of uncontrolled diabetes can also make your feet feel cold.

“Other possible causes include hypothyroidism and anaemia.

“A doctor can look for any underlying problems or let you know that you simply have cold feet.”

Pain in feet

Diabetic neuropathy most often damages nerves in your legs and feet, said Mayo Clinic.

The site added: “Depending on the affected nerves, diabetic neuropathy symptoms can range from pain and numbness in your legs and feet to problems with your digestive system, urinary tract, blood vessels and heart.

“Some people have mild symptoms.”

Red, white and blue toes

Raynaud’s disease can cause toes to turn white, then bluish, and then redden again and return to their natural tone.

The cause is a sudden narrowing of the arteries, called vasospasms.

Stress or changes in temperature can trigger vasospasms, which usually don’t lead to other health concerns.

Raynaud’s may also be related to rheumatoid arthritis, Sjögren’s disease, or thyroid problems.

Ways to look after your feet:

Use a foot scrub at least twice a week

This will soften your skin and remove any calluses or cracked skin, which can be painful and lead to fungal infections.

A good foot scrub can remove dead skin cells and reduce the likelihood of infection.

Moisturise your feet daily

Skin can get very dry during the harsh winter months and need a lot of hydration.

Treat your feet to a good cream (with ingredients like cocoa butter and shea butter) and apply daily to clean, dry feet.

Wear natural socks 

Winter socks need to be thick and warm to stop your feet from getting cold and to keep them dry on rainy or snowy days.

Natural materials such as cotton and wool are warmer than synthetic blends, and also more absorbent.

Wear shoes that fit properly. 

More than 60 percent of people have one foot larger than the other so your shoes should always accommodate the larger foot.

Shoes which are too tight can affect blood flow to the feet, which can cause them to get cold very easily.

Shoes which are too big can cause sores and blisters.

If you have conditions such as bunions, wear shoes which accommodate them.





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