5 health warning signs in the feet you should not miss

The feet carry the weight of the entire body, take thousands of steps each day, and quietly support us through life, yet they rarely get the attention they deserve. Beyond helping one get around, feet also carry clues about overall health.

From signs of kidney illnesses to nutrient deficiencies, feet can signal many underlying conditions that require attention. Here are five warning signs in the feet that should not be ignored.

Swollen feet

People often tend to dismiss swollen feet. Swollen feet can indicate serious health issues. One cause for swollen feet could be lymphatic congestion, where sluggish drainage pathways cause fluid buildup. Kidney or liver stress may also be to blame, as these organs regulate fluid balance, and dysfunction can lead to retention.

Persistent swelling could point to heart strain, a circulatory warning sign that demands immediate evaluation.

If swelling persists beyond a day or two, especially with pain or discoloration, it is important to consult a doctor.

Fungal infections

Fungal infections, too, could be signs of other underlying diseases. Some infections may reflect deeper issues like gut dysbiosis, where an overgrowth of harmful bacteria in the gut manifests on the skin.

Another reason could be the imbalance in blood sugar. Poor footwear hygiene, especially sweaty shoes, exacerbates the problem. Persistent or recurring infections warrant a doctor’s visit.

Cracked heels

The heels aren’t supposed to be dry or cracked. These are more than a cosmetic concern. A thyroid imbalance can alter skin texture and moisture, and lead to persistent dryness. Liver dysfunction too, can result in cracked heels. When the liver is not functioning correctly, it can lead to a buildup of toxins in the body, which may manifest as dry, cracked skin.

Deficiencies in vitamins E, B3, or C, which are essential for skin repair and hydration, can also contribute to this condition.

Numbness or tingling

Numbness or tingling in the feet may signal peripheral neuropathy, often linked to blood sugar issues or deficiencies in nutrients like vitamin B12. Another reason could be heavy metal toxicity, which over time leads to nerve pathway damage. Numbness in the feet, especially, should not be dismissed.

It is important to talk to your doctor if the condition persists.

Cold feet

If the feet are always cold, it warrants immediate attention. Chronically cold feet may indicate poor circulation, often tied to a sedentary lifestyle or vascular issues. Low thyroid function (hypothyroidism) can also reduce blood flow to the extremities, leaving feet cold. Another reason could be chronic stress or adrenal dysfunction, which keeps the body in fight or flight mode, diverting blood from the feet.