Every once in a while, it is crucial to check different areas of your body, particularly those that are often overlooked. This includes the bottom of your feet. While cracks and corns are common occurrences, it is advised not to ignore other changes like yellowing of the feet.
In an interaction with the OnlyMyHealth team, Dr Shireen Furtado, Senior Consultant, Medical and Cosmetic Dermatology, Aster CMI Hospital, Bengaluru, explains why and ways to treat and manage the underlying conditions.
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Why Do People Experience Yellowing Of The Feet
Several factors can cause the soles of your feet to turn yellow.
According to Dr Furtado, one common reason is the accumulation of keratin, a protein found in the skin, due to excessive friction or pressure, especially from wearing poorly fitting shoes.
Additionally, it is crucial to recognise underlying medical conditions like jaundice, which results in an excess of bilirubin in the blood and can cause the skin, including the feet, to turn yellow.
As per StatPearls Publishing, jaundice is particularly prevalent among newborns and the elderly. In fact, research notes that around 20 percent of term babies are diagnosed with jaundice in the first week of life, primarily due to an immature hepatic conjugation process.
On a more serious note, change in colour may also be a result of factors such as liver dysfunction or peripheral vascular disease.
Other factors would include fungal infections and consuming foods rich in carotenoids, like carrots and sweet potatoes, which can lead to a yellowish colour.
Can Lifestyle Factors Contribute To Yellow Feet?
The short answer is yes.
Dr Furtado reveals that lifestyle choices have a significant impact on the colour of your feet, as certain habits and environmental factors can lead to yellow discolouration.
She says, “Inadequate hydration can hinder the body's ability to remove toxins, potentially leading to discoloration." Habits such as smoking or excessive alcohol consumption can impact liver function, which is essential for processing bilirubin. An accumulation of this substance can also cause yellowing of the skin. Regular exposure to certain chemicals or pollutants, whether through work hazards or personal care products, can worsen the problem.”
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When To Seek Medical Help?
Check for any yellow discolouration of the skin on your feet and the white part of the eye (conjunctiva). This could be a serious underlying health issue.
Yellowing of the skin, also known as jaundice, can be a warning sign for problems related to liver function, bile duct obstruction, or other systemic conditions.
Therefore, if you experience additional symptoms such as itching, pain, swelling, or changes in urine or stool colour along with the yellowing, it's crucial to consult a doctor.
Treatments And Remedies
"There are various treatments and remedies available for dealing with yellowing of the feet," says Dr Furtado.
She shares common approaches, which include using antifungal creams or medicated ointments for fungal infections and maintaining proper foot hygiene through regular washing to prevent further discolouration.
However, at the end of the day, it is important to consult a doctor for cases linked to underlying health conditions like jaundice or peripheral vascular disease.