When it comes to hygiene and skin care routine, many of us overlook our feet.
Not because they are the furthest from our head doesn’t mean they do not deserve care and attention.
Our feet bear our entire weight, and they take us anywhere we want to. It is just right to keep them clean, moisturized, and healthy. Those who do things like regular pedicures and peels are probably aware of what could happen without proper care.
For most people, feet are usually taken for granted until problems occur. There are many reasons why you should check your feet as they can show signs and symptoms of medical conditions that may be present in your body. Observe your feet and see whether you are experiencing any of the following.
#1. Suddenly High Arch
If you normally have low or medium arches, having high arch all of a sudden could be a sign of a health problem. According to UW Medicine, an unusually high arch is associated with nervous system disorders, such as muscular dystrophy, polio, stroke, and spinal cord tumor.
#2. Straight Line Under Toenails
A spot or streak could be nothing to worry about, but parallel lines could be related to malnutrition. These lines are called Muehrcke’s lines and appear when the protein levels in your blood are low.
#3. Spooned Toenails
Spooned nails have concaving shapes. These are not only unsightly and uncomfortable but according to the NHS, it is linked to forms of lupus and anemia.
#4. Pitted Toenails
If you have pits or dents on the surface of your toenails, this could be caused by ill-fitting footwear. However, it could also be related to skin diseases, such as eczema, psoriasis, and alopecia.
#5. Clubbing Big Toenail
According to The National Health Service, clubbing toenails occur when the tissue below the nails start to thicken, making the fingertips bulbous or rounded. If you or someone you know is experiencing this symptom, it is best to see a doctor for proper diagnosis. Clubbing is linked to inflammatory bowel disease, scarring of the liver, stomach cancer, and lung cancer.
#6. Red Lines Under Toenail
Red streaks beneath your toenails are likely the result of a minor external injury. But if you often see them, visit a doctor right away. These are possible signs of an infection of the heart valves or lupus.
#7. Swollen Big Toe
The Mayo Clinic explains that swollen big toe is one of the symptoms of gout, which is a form of arthritis. It occurs when urate crystals accumulate in the joints.
#8. Wounds That Don’t Heal
If you have a cut or wound that doesn’t heal, it could be a sign of diabetes. Poor circulation due to diabetes makes it difficult for ulcers or wounds to heal.
#9. Bald Toes
Did you know that losing hair on your toes is something that you should worry about? According to the Mayo Clinic, loss of hair o legs and feet could be a sign of poor circulation or peripheral artery disease.
#10. Dry, Flaky Feet
Most of us have had dry or cracked heels before. If moisturizer can’t treat them, it could be a symptom of a thyroid problem.
Knowing the early symptoms can help in preventing illnesses or diseases from getting worse. If you experience any of the signs, it is best to see your doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment. Don’t forget to SHARE this information with your family and friends on Facebook!