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5 things your feet can tell you about your health, from circulation problems to skin cancer
Did you know, your feet can tell you a lot about your health? From pain to swelling, all kinds of illness symptoms can present in your extremities.
Dr Amir Khan, a doctor in the UK, has shared five things to watch out for in your feet that could be indicating a serious health issue.
5 things your feet can tell you about your health
Foot problems can show all kinds of things including circulatory problems, nerve issues and even cancer.
1. Circulation problems
Firstly, if you are suddenly getting really cold feet or toes, that could be a sign of circulatory problems, meaning blood isn’t moving around your body as it should. This could be due to a condition called peripheral vascular disease (PVD), which is when blood vessels become narrowed or blocked. Cold feet signify that the blood vessels in your feet are blocked and restricting blood flow, often caused by diabetes, high cholesterol or smoking.
2. Nerve issues
Feeling a burning or tingling pain in your feet could be a sign there is an issue with your nerves, which send electrical signals throughout your body to control various things, including sensations and movement. A condition called peripheral neuropathy�develops when nerves in the hands, feet�and arms, are damaged. This is more common if you have diabetes, low levels of Vitamin B12 or folic acid, thyroid disease or drink a lot of alcohol.
3. Plantar fasciitis
A sharp, stabbing pain in the bottom of your heel when you try to walk is usually a symptom of a really common foot injury called plantar fasciitis, which is when the tissue that runs along the sole of the foot becomes inflamed. A similar pain could also indicate a stress fracture, which is a tiny crack in a bone under your foot that occurs due to repetitive force. It could be a sign of arthritis or a damaged tendon too.
4. Skin cancer
If you have a sore or ulcer on your foot that won’t heal, always get that checked because it could be a symptom of skin cancer. Many don’t realise skin cancer can present itself anywhere on the body. Cancer sores on the feet are painless but have a history of cracking, bleeding, or ulceration. Always contact a healthcare professional if you have a mole or sore that looks abnormal or has recently changed in size or color.
5. Liver, kidney and heart problems
Finally, one of the most experienced foot symptoms is swelling, which is usually nothing to worry about and occurs after you’ve spent a lot of time on your feet, especially in the summer. It’s also common in pregnant and overweight people and is usually solved by elevating the feet. However, swollen feet could be a sign of problems with your liver, kidneys and even your heart. Swelling can also occur with arthritis, infections and blood clots.
If you have pain, swelling, burning, tingling or cold feet that you are concerned about, it’s always best to see a doctor who will be able to provide further guidance.
Dr Amir Khan is a full-time general practitioner at The Ridge Medical Practice in Bradford, UK who graduated from the University of Liverpool.�He is the resident doctor for ITVs Lorraine and Good Morning Britain and is a best-selling author.
