Visible signs on your feet could hint at serious health issues
Their unusual appearance is not always just a matter of aesthetics. Any irregularities visible on the feet often indicate health problems and even hint at cancer. Which symptoms should you pay special attention to?
Clubbing of fingers and nails is one of the more characteristic symptoms that can appear on both the hands and feet. Thickening and rounding of the fingertips and thickening of the nails become noticeably convex. This is often associated with a lack of oxygen in the blood, which can be due to chronic diseases, including lung or stomach cancer.
Some people with lung cancer may experience swelling in the feet caused by fluid retention in the body. This swelling can be painful and lead to difficulty moving. Neuropathy, or nerve damage, can also be one of the symptoms of advanced lung cancer. It can lead to numbness, tingling, or pain in the feet.
Moreover, if you notice that your nails turn yellow, it may be a sign of health problems, potentially cancerous ones.
Changes in the feet that should raise red flags
The feet can also indicate peripheral artery disease. Noticeable hair loss on the toes and tops of the feet can be seen. According to specialists from the Mayo Clinic, the so-called hairless toes are a warning sign that should be consulted with a doctor.
The feet can also reveal symptoms of diabetes. Slow-healing wounds, abrasions or cuts, and ulcers should concern us, as these are the most common symptoms of the diabetic foot. They should not be ignored because, in the case of diabetes, even an innocent wound can lead to infection and, consequently, may require the amputation of a toe or the entire foot.
Another symptom of diabetes can be weakened pain sensation. This is caused by poor blood circulation and peripheral nerve damage.
Severe pain and accompanying big toe swelling are the most common gout symptoms. A sudden change in the foot's shape can indicate a stroke or a spinal cord tumour.
The feet can also reveal thyroid problems. Pay attention to dry, scaly skin and thickening. In this case, it's worth consulting an endocrinologist who may order appropriate tests to check if your hormonal balance functions correctly.
If you notice vertical red lines under your toenails and have not suffered mechanical trauma, it may be a sign of lupus or myocarditis. Lupus may also change the appearance of nails, making them curve upwards, resembling a spoon. A similar symptom can occur in the case of anaemia.
If you notice any of these symptoms in yourself, visit the doctor. Remember, early diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment.
