What It Means: Poor blood flow (peripheral artery disease), Raynaud’s disease, or thyroid issues.
What to Look For: Persistently cold feet, bluish/pale toes, or slow-healing cuts.
What to Do: Keep feet warm, avoid smoking, exercise. Consult a vascular specialist if ongoing.
4. Slow-Healing Sores or Wounds
What It Means: Common in diabetes, poor circulation, or immune issues. Can lead to infection if ignored.
What to Look For: Cuts, blisters, or sores that don’t improve in a week. Signs of infection (redness, pus, fever) are urgent.
What to Do: Keep wounds clean and covered, avoid walking barefoot, and seek medical care.
5. Changes in Skin or Nail Appearance
What It Means: Dry cracked skin can indicate hypothyroidism; yellow brittle nails may be fungal infection, psoriasis, or even lung issues. Dark streaks could rarely mean melanoma.
What to Look For: Persistent dryness, thick or crumbly nails, or unusual streaks.
What to Do: Moisturize, wear breathable shoes, and see a dermatologist for suspicious changes.
