Your Feet Can Offer Clues to Your Overall Health
It’s common to come home after a long day, put your legs up, and say, “My feet are killing me!” Of course, that’s just an expression and your feet aren’t actually trying to end you, but they might be trying to give you some information about other conditions that could be dangerous to your health and even your life. Be on the lookout for symptoms like these:
Foot fracture: Have you broken a bone after a fall or sports injury? It might be a good idea to get checked for osteoporosis, a dangerous weakening of the bones throughout the body. Your podiatrist can test you for this condition and offer options for treatment.
A new or changing spot on the skin of your foot: Skin cancer can strike anywhere, even on your foot. See your podiatrist right away if you notice a mole or other spot that is changing or newly developed.
Chronically cold feet: Everyone’s feet feel chilly once in a while. But if your feet are cold all the time, even in the warm weather, and if typical steps like warm socks or a bath don’t help, a variety of causes can be to blame. An expert podiatrist like Jason Grossman, DPM can determine whether your cold feet are the result of an underactive thyroid, poor circulation, or another condition.
Wounds that won’t heal: Small nicks or cuts on the feet that refuse to heal and even become more serious injuries can be indicative of diabetes or other issues. It’s important to see your podiatrist for examination, diagnosis, and treatment as soon as possible.
Redness, swelling, or pus around the toenail, especially where the toenail meets the skin: An ingrown toenail doesn’t sound like a big deal, but an infection anywhere in your body can pose global health risks, especially if you are someone whose health is compromised by an underlying condition. Don’t try to manage your ingrown toenail at home. See your foot doctor for help.
Protect the health of your feet, ankles, and lower legs. See a podiatrist like Dr. Jason Grossman for regular examinations. Schedule a visit to Advanced Feet and Ankle Care’s modern, comfortable Old Bridge and Sayreville offices. Call our friendly staff at (732) 679-4330 or click here to get started today.