Questions You’re Embarrassed to Ask About Foot Problems

Dr. Brian Nagy | September 1st, 2017

Posted In: Foot Problems

Taking care of your feet should be a top priority, but sometimes we get embarrassed because of how our feet look or if they begin to have a strong odor. Don’t be embarrassed! Everyone has issues from time to time. If you don’t correct them as soon as they appear, they can become major problems in the long run. Put aside your embarrassment and schedule an appointment with a New Hampshire podiatrist at Nagy Footcare to uncover the cause of your foot problems. A few of the most commonly asked questions include:

What Causes Toenail Fungus?

Toenail fungus grows in dark moist places. It often enters through small cracks that occur in the nail. As a person ages, their toenails can become brittle causing them to crack or peel.

Other health conditions can also cause the nails to dry out. Poor circulation and a depressed immune system may also contribute to the likelihood of nail fungus. As the nails deteriorate and your feet continue to sweat while inside your shoes, it creates the perfect breeding ground for fungi and other bacteria.

Keeping your feet clean and as dry as possible can dramatically reduce your risk of developing toenail fungus.

What Causes Foot Odor and Why Is It So Strong?

Foot odor is the result of excessive sweating. The sweat glands in your feet are constantly at work, even if you aren’t performing any physical activity. Your feet have more sweat glands than many other areas of the body which means an excessive amount of moisture, especially when you’re forced to wear shoes all day long.

Hormone imbalances and poor hygiene can also cause strong foot odor. The bacteria on your feet break down the sweat as it’s produced. This is what causes foot odor.

If you want to keep your feet smelling fresh, wash them often and change your socks frequently. Avoid wearing the same pair of shoes several days in a row. This allows the moisture to evaporate and not remain in contact with your feet.

Why Does the Skin Between My Toes Crack and Bleed?

Athlete’s foot is a form of fungus that can affect the flesh of the foot as well as the toenails. Much like toenail fungus, it thrives in warm, moist areas and increases in numbers just like bacteria. As Athlete’s foot begins to thrive, it causes intense itching and inflamed areas on the feet.

As the condition progresses, the skin can crack and peel. Eventually deeper layers of tissue will be affected, resulting in bleeding and deeper cracks that may eventually become infected. Cracks can also occur between the toes and around the heel if the skin is allowed to get too dry.

What Causes Bunions and Other Toe Deformities?

Bunions, calluses and other toe deformities are often caused by poorly fitting shoes. Many people who have crooked toes or unsightly bumps on their feet often try to hide them. The fact is, many toe deformities can be corrected, either through the use of small splints or through surgical procedures.

Bunions, corns, and calluses can be removed easily. Hammertoes can often be repaired through the use of special orthotics. In severe cases, a minimally invasive surgical procedure can be used to correct the abnormality and allow the toes to return to their normal position.

At Nagy Footcare, Dr. Nagy understands your feelings of embarrassment. He also knows that by not promptly addressing your concerns you leave yourself open to more severe health problems.

Don’t let fear or embarrassment keep you from getting the treatment you need. Be proactive. Instead of waiting for problems to arise, schedule an appointment with a New Hampshire podiatrist at Nagy Footcare before embarrassing situations arise.

Proper foot care and good hygiene may help you avoid problems like foot odor and toenail or foot fungus. Always do your best to take care of your feet and your feet will take care of you.

Dr. Nagy can offer you sound advice on how to avoid embarrassing foot problems and develop treatment plans that will ensure that your feet are something you can be proud of.

At Nagy Footcare, our best day is the day you wake up with no foot pain.