Cracks in the feet can signal serious internal diseases

Cracks in the feet are one of the varieties of dermatitis, in which the skin on the heels, the joints of the big toes, between the fingers is damaged. These injuries can cause pain when walking and even at rest, bring psychological discomfort and can cause infection. The occurrence of cracks in the feet can be explained by both internal diseases and external influences on the skin of the feet.

The disease, due to which cracks appear on the feet, develops due to a decrease in skin elasticity, and it can be caused by a violation of the hydrolipid balance, a deficiency of collagen and elastin fibers.

Types of cracks in the feet and their causes

Cracks in the feet can be small and not painful, and in some cases they form deep bleeding wounds that look like tears. Such lesions most often occur on the heels, cause severe pain when walking and reduce the quality of life.
Epidermal superficial cracks in the feet heal quickly and without traces, and deep epidermal-dermal cracks leave scars. Some experts also distinguish between dry and wet cracks, depending on the condition of the surrounding skin.

Among the endogenous factors that can cause cracks in the feet, the doctor, when examining and questioning the patient, should clarify the following:

• diabetes mellitus, metabolic disorder;
• deficiency of vitamins A, group B;
• hormonal imbalance;
• allergy;
• diseases of the liver, kidneys, gastrointestinal tract;
• cardiovascular disease;
• stop deformities;
• skin diseases;
• Sharp restriction of fats in the diet.

In addition, the cause of the appearance of cracks in the feet can be taking certain medications, walking barefoot on the ground or on a hard surface, poor personal hygiene, incorrect pedicure, wearing uncomfortable shoes.

Cracks in the feet – diagnosis and choice of therapy

Treatment of foot cracks begins with a patient interview, history taking, etc. if necessary, the appointment of additional examinations to find out the cause of the disease. If an infection is suspected, a smear is prescribed to determine the pathogen, and if an allergy is suspected, an allergen test is performed.

Depending on the results of the examination, healing ointments and softening creams with anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, antimicrobial effects, as well as multivitamin preparations with vitamins A, B, E, magnesium, zinc, and polyunsaturated acids are prescribed for the treatment of cracked feet.