It is not always the case that a problem in the feet, when changes are noticed there, means the problem is actually there. Sometimes it can also signal health issues in other bodily systems.

My feet are constantly cold

This may not only be due to cold weather and unsuitable footwear. Cold feet can also be due to impaired circulation. Blood flows to the legs through arteries, so if they narrow for various reasons, blood circulation in the feet can be disrupted. What are these reasons? They can include atherosclerosis of the arteries, diabetes mellitus, nerve damage, or thyroid dysfunction. Even anemia, or lung function disorders, can lead to insufficient oxygen in the blood, which means the feet do not receive an adequate supply of this vital element.

Wounds have appeared on my feet and are healing slowly

This problem may signal diabetes mellitus. You should be especially concerned if the wounds on your feet do not cause much pain or if you didn't even notice how they appeared. This may indicate damaged nerve endings. This damage occurs due to constantly elevated blood glucose levels. Wounds may also heal slower due to the circulatory disorders mentioned earlier.

My feet are constantly swollen

Not all foot swelling is a consequence of a more serious pathology. Most often, it can be due to long walks, uncomfortable shoes, or even pregnancy. However, if you notice that your feet are constantly swollen, it is worth being concerned. This may indicate a heart function disorder, causing fluids to accumulate in the body, and due to gravity, this is noticed particularly in the feet. Also, if you have noticed that only one foot is swollen and you feel pain, especially in the calf area, this could mean deep vein thrombosis, which should be treated as soon as possible.

So what should you do and where should you turn when there are so many different causes and pathologies? First, it would be advisable to visit your family doctor; they will assess your complaints and, if necessary, refer you for further consultation with a specialist doctor.



Rūta Stirbytė