Often, individuals may overlook certain signs and symptoms appearing on their feet that could indicate serious chronic diseases posing a real threat to their lives. Here are the key symptoms that can appear on the feet signaling serious health issues, according to the "MSN" website:
**Dry, Cracked Feet**
This can be caused by thyroid problems.
When the thyroid gland (butterfly-shaped gland at the base of your neck) is disrupted, it fails to produce thyroid hormones properly. These hormones control metabolism, blood pressure, tissue growth, skeletal development, and nervous system development. According to Marlene Reed, a foot specialist at the Family Foot Care Center in Naperville, Illinois: "Thyroid issues can cause severe skin dryness." "When we see cracks in the feet, or if dryness doesn't improve with moisturizer over a few days, we usually refer patients to their primary care doctors to ensure their thyroid is functioning properly." Brittle toenails can also indicate thyroid complications.
**Bald Toe**
This can be caused by atherosclerotic disease.
If the hair on your toes has suddenly disappeared, it may indicate poor circulation caused by peripheral artery disease. Susan Fox, a foot surgery specialist in Florida, states: “Signs of peripheral artery disease can include reduced hair growth on the feet and ankles, toes, and thin skin. The symptoms are subtle, but doctors can check for healthy pulses in the feet.” “In severe cases, doctors may detect peripheral artery disease on an X-ray. If an X-ray was taken of a broken foot and it showed arterial stiffening, this indicates arterial damage in the heart as well."
**Non-Healing Ulcer**
This can be caused by diabetes.
Uncontrolled glucose levels can damage nerves and cause poor circulation, meaning blood does not reach all areas of the body, including the feet. When blood does not reach a wound on the foot, the skin does not heal properly. Many diabetes patients are diagnosed after developing foot ulcers. Other signs of diabetes may include persistent tingling or numbness in the feet.
**Swollen, Painful Big Toe**
This can be caused by gout.
Gout is a type of arthritis that frequently affects the joint in the big toe. Foods high in purines, a chemical compound found in red meats, fish, and certain types of alcohol, can raise uric acid levels in the body. Uric acid is usually excreted through urine, but it may be excessively produced or less excreted in some individuals. Bob Baravarian, a foot and ankle specialist at Providence Saint John’s Health Center in Santa Monica, California, explains: "Uric acid deposits in the big toe joint or ankle. A doctor may prescribe anti-inflammatory medications for short-term relief and medications to reduce uric acid production. You may also need to follow a low-purine diet for long-term prevention."
**Small Red Lines Under Toenails**
This can be caused by heart inflammation.
The red lines underneath the toenails can indicate broken small blood vessels known as splinter hemorrhages. While conditions like psoriasis, fungal infections, or even simply a nail injury can cause splintering, they may also signal endocarditis or inflammation of the heart lining, according to the American Academy of Family Physicians. According to the American Heart Association, individuals currently having heart conditions are at a higher risk of developing endocarditis. Infections can lead to heart failure if left untreated. If you notice splintering under your nails and have not experienced any recent trauma to the nail, consult your doctor for a check-up on your heart and circulation.
**Pitted Nails**
This can be caused by psoriasis.
If you notice small holes, grooves, or bumps in your nails, you might have nail psoriasis. Although most people with nail psoriasis also suffer from skin psoriasis (an autoimmune condition causing incomplete and irritated skin), 5% of individuals with nail psoriasis are not affected elsewhere. Other symptoms include white patches and horizontal lines across the nails. To treat psoriasis, your doctor may prescribe topical creams or steroids injected under the nail.
