What Happens When Your Feet Get Wet and Stay Wet?



In the United States, we frequently wonder where we’ve left the umbrella. But keeping our heads dry is only one of the issues of living on a wet island. We must also consider our feet. If your feet become wet on a frequent basis, it can cause a slew of issues. When our feet are encased in socks, winter shoes, or boots, any moisture that enters means to stay there. Being trapped in a warm, moist, cramped place quickly promotes sores and infection. And we wouldn't want that.

Fungal Infections – Athlete’s Foot
Your feet are susceptible to many illnesses, but one of the most common is the athlete’s foot. It creates cracked, scaly skin that is also red and itchy. This can be very uncomfortable and unpleasant because it's infectious and tempting to scratch. If you're not careful, it can spread to other areas of your body.

Trench Foot
Trench foot is a foot ailment that was discovered during the First World War. Soldiers in the trenches suffered from cold and damp feet for extended periods of time. The risk of it occurring today is still high. It is a very serious and widespread condition that could lead to permanent disability. Foot specialists recommend using specific treatments before it progresses to this level.


Blisters, Rashes and Sores

Persistent friction can cause painful sores and blisters. If left untreated it can lead to blisters and infection if your feet do not fit properly or if they are damp.

Don’t Let It Happen
The best way to deal with these issues is to prevent them from happening.

  • Make sure your winter footwear fits properly.
  • Check your shoes/boots for cracks and tears and don’t forget to include the soles in your inspection.
  • Wear good quality, moisture-wicking socks and carry a spare pair if you’re outdoors a lot.
  • Change out of wet footwear as soon as possible.
    Dry and air your shoes thoroughly before wearing them again.
  • Go barefoot indoors when you’ve been out in the wet (once you’ve dried your feet) – good airing helps prevent the spread of fungus and bacteria.
  • Treat leather footwear with a water-repellent product.
  • Use suitable plasters on your feet or toes as soon as you feel a blister starting. Don’t be tempted to pierce them.

For infections like Athlete’s foot, regular washing in warm, soapy water and careful drying, particularly between the toes, will help ease the discomfort and stop the problem from spreading.
 
Seek Advice from Your Podiatrist
All-in-one Foot Care, the offices of Dr. Roohian, can assist you with all of your foot care needs.


For more information, visit @ http://www.ocfootdoctor.com & consult our Dr. Arshia Roohian is currently serving cities including Laguna Woods, Irvine, Rancho Santa Margarita, Mission Viejo, Laguna Hills, and Lake Forest. 

Friday, March 4, 2022