Health and beautyMedicinal plants

Four signs in the legs that you should pay attention to and see a doctor

Four signs in the legs that you should pay attention: Your feet can offer early indicators of a number of conditions ranging from diabetes to cardiovascular issues, but luckily a few simple changes can make a big difference to your overall foot health

Stay with this section of Medicinal plants in the health and beauty section of Eternal Pen magazine.

 

Four signs in the legs that you should pay attention

Brits, it’s time to give your feet some TLC! We’re all about keeping our toes cosy in socks and sturdy footwear for most of the year, but when the sun decides to grace us with its presence, out come the sandals and flip-flops. And guess what?

This is the perfect opportunity to play foot detective, because those bad boys can tell you heaps about your health!

One doc is urging us to take a closer look at our feet thus Summer, as they could be flashing warning signs about our overall health. Dr Babak Ashrafi from Superdrug Online Doctor even revealed out feet can flag up everything from diabetes to heart trouble before other symptoms show up.

Dr Ashrafi explained: “Your feet mirror the health of your internal organs and systems, offering clues about your overall well-being. Foot health can reveal conditions ranging from circulatory issues to systemic diseases, making them an essential part of routine health assessments.”, reports Gloucestershire Live.

Colour changes

Four signs in the legs that you should pay attention: If your feet are looking a little more colourful than usual, pay attention. Dr Ashrafi warns: “Discolouration of the feet can indicate various health issues. Blue or purple feet are often a sign of being cold. However it can also indicate poor circulation or cardiovascular problems. Peripheral vascular disease, caused by conditions such as diabetes or smoking, can lead to severe issues with circulation, causing blockages in the blood vessels of legs and feet.”

“Red feet can be triggered by an allergic reaction, especially when accompanied with itching, swelling or a rash. It could also be linked to an infection, such as cellulitis, which can be caused by bacteria or fungus entering the body through small breaks in the skin. Tell-tale signs of an infection include redness, inflammation, pain, discharge or an odour. Seek medical assistance if you are concerned.”

Swelling

Four signs in the legs that you should pay attention: Dr Ashrafi said: “Swelling is a common symptom of a foot or ankle injury. Elevate your foot and try not to put too much pressure or weight on the affected leg. An ice pack or compression bandage can also help reduce the swelling.”

“Oedema is the medical term for swelling that occurs when fluid is trapped in the body, usually affecting the legs or feet. It’s important that oedema is diagnosed by a Doctor in order to be treated promptly. Temporary oedema can often be improved by reducing salt intake and getting a moderate amount of exercise.”

“If left untreated, oedema can cause swelling that gets more and more painful, along with difficulties in walking. Persistent swelling, alongside other symptoms such as shortness of breath, fatigue and rapid or an irregular heartbeat, can be a sign of a more serious health condition such as heart failure, as the heart weakens and gradually fails to pump blood as it should.”

Four signs in the legs that you should pay attention-1

Numbness and tingling

Four signs in the legs that you should pay attention: Dr Ashrafi warned: “A numbness or tingling sensation in your feet, when you’ve been in one position for too long, is referred to as ‘pins and needles’. A persistent tingling or numb sensation in your feet can also be a sign of diabetic neuropathy, a type of nerve damage that occurs in people with diabetes, caused by high blood sugar levels, especially if it’s affecting both sides. Speak to your doctor if you are concerned.”

Changes to skin and nails

Four signs in the legs that you should pay attention: When it comes to changes in skin and nails, Dr Ashrafi advised: “Thick, yellow nails could suggest a fungal infection and can be treated at home with anti-fungal treatments. Dry, cracked heels can be a result of being on your feet for long periods of time, especially hard floors and wearing unsupportive footwear.”

He also highlighted: “In some cases, dry, cracked heels can be a sign of an underactive thyroid gland or hypothyroidism. Superdrug Online Doctor offers a Thyroid Hormone Testing Kit, with results and advice from doctors shared within 72 hours.”

 

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