What’s Happening with My Feet?
At 44 years old, with a height of 5'4" and weighing 65 kg, I maintain a balanced diet and stay active through regular physical activity, including three spin classes and two weekly 5k runs. I do not take any ongoing medications, nor do I have a specific medical diagnosis. However, my feet have been problematic for approximately seven years. I intend to share some images in the comments to illustrate the severe peeling and potential toenail issues I have been experiencing. My physician continually prescribes creams for athlete's foot, yet despite consistently applying these treatments for at least two years, I have not noticed any improvement. I am beginning to suspect that my symptoms could be part of a broader systemic issue, particularly since I also deal with what I believe to be lichen sclerosus in the genital area. I have only recently begun to address that condition; my doctor has yet to conduct any tests but has provided me with a steroid cream that appears to offer some relief. Occasionally, the skin on the soles of my feet, particularly the balls, develops a crater-like appearance, usually after soaking in the bath. Although I don’t have an image to share, it’s a sight that could readily evoke trypophobia. Additionally, I have a habit of picking at my toenails. In the past, I struggled with ingrown toenails, but I have managed to refrain from tampering with them recently, and they are no longer a source of discomfort.
Answers (1)
8/12/2025, 1:11:04 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you are dealing with ongoing and frustrating issues with your feet, which can significantly impact your quality of life. You've been diligent about your health through a balanced diet and regular exercise, yet the persistent foot problems, including severe peeling and toenail issues, demand more attention.
Main Points:
- Your symptoms may not be solely caused by athlete's foot, especially if creams have not provided relief.
- You may benefit from exploring both dermatological and potential systemic causes for these symptoms.
- Avoid habits that could further irritate your feet and toenails.
Explanation: The peeling skin and crater-like appearance you described could indicate several possible issues, including a chronic skin condition like eczema or psoriasis, or a fungal infection that hasn't responded to standard treatments. Since you're also experiencing lichen sclerosus, it's worth exploring if these skin conditions are interconnected or if there are systemic factors at play. The fact that your physician hasn’t conducted tests yet might explain the lack of progress.
Your habit of picking at your toenails can exacerbate foot issues and increase the risk of infections or further injury. It can be helpful to consider methods to break this habit, if possible.
Next Steps:
-
Tracking Symptoms: Keep a detailed diary of your symptoms, including when they worsen, any triggers (like certain activities or conditions), and how your skin reacts to specific treatments. This information can guide further discussions with your healthcare provider.
-
Consider Dermatology Referral: Request a referral to a dermatologist for a more specialized evaluation of your foot symptoms. They may suggest additional tests, such as skin biopsies or allergy tests, to better understand the underlying issue.
-
Moisturize Regularly: Use a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer on your feet after bathing to help maintain skin hydration. This can alleviate peeling.
-
Foot Hygiene: Avoid soaking your feet too long, as that can worsen the crater-like appearance. When washing, use lukewarm water and a mild soap, and pat your feet dry carefully.
-
Be Gentle with Toenails: Try to avoid picking at your toenails altogether. If you notice painful areas, consider using proper nail care practices or seeing a podiatrist for advice on maintaining your toenails to prevent ingrown nails.
-
Follow Up on Lichen Sclerosus: Continue to manage your lichen sclerosus with the prescribed care, keeping communication open with your physician about any concerns related to both conditions.
Remember, your situation is unique, and it’s essential to find a tailored approach that addresses both your foot and overall skin health. If you need support or more specific information, please feel free to ask.
Related Questions
Concerning My Husband's Persistent Discomfort Related to His Throat
My husband, who is 33 years old, frequently expresses distress over a sensation of constriction caused by his Adam’s apple. This discomfort has been a part of his life for as long as he can remember. He shared with me that at the age of 18, he sought medical advice for this issue, but the doctor's response was dismissive. As a woman, I find it challenging to fully grasp his experience since I lack insight into certain physiological aspects. He often describes feeling as though his throat is tightening. This is not a rare complaint for him; in fact, he brings it up nearly every day. A few months back, we visited the hospital to get a comprehensive understanding of his health, particularly because he is frequently labeled a hypochondriac, and while he does have a tendency for dramatics, my quick research online suggests that this might be a more common concern than we initially thought. I genuinely wish to offer him reassurance rooted in factual knowledge. If necessary, I can provide a visual reference of his Adam’s apple. Any guidance or advice would be immensely helpful.
Inquiry about Genetic Testing and Its Implications
Age 45, height 5'4", weight 240 lbs, Caucasian; has a background of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and obesity (achieved a weight loss of 74 pounds over the last two years); suffers from hypertension and elevated cholesterol levels; has endured various joint injuries due to an accident that required lumbar fusion from L3 to S1, along with reconstructive surgeries on the shoulder, ankle, and knee; experiences anxiety, depression, and migraines. I recently underwent comprehensive genome sequencing and discovered several significant abnormalities that require consultation with an endocrinologist. I am interested to know how healthcare providers react when patients present these types of findings. My intention is not to come across as demanding or to imply that I possess greater knowledge than my physician. However, after numerous tests and persistent efforts to seek answers over the years, I feel that we may have uncovered a genuine explanation for my symptoms, and I wish to ensure that my concerns are acknowledged and taken seriously.
Inquiry About Dental Procedures Before Major Surgery
Recently, my mother made a sudden decision to undergo a total dental extraction. She had her upper teeth removed approximately two weeks ago, and just yesterday, the lower ones were taken out. She is slated for a pre-operative assessment on Monday morning, ahead of a significant back surgery scheduled for Tuesday, which may last between eight to ten hours and necessitates intubation. I am curious about the likelihood that her doctor might postpone the surgery due to her recent dental procedure. This concern is heightened as we have booked a hotel and my husband has arranged to take two days off work for this event. Although I am still within the timeframe to cancel our hotel reservation, I am hesitant to do so if her surgery is still on track. To give a bit more context, my mother is a 54-year-old Caucasian woman, standing 5'6" and weighing 160 pounds. She does not consume alcohol, has been a potential smoker, and recently (a few months back) ceased using drugs (meth) as mandated by drug court. As far as I know, she isn’t currently prescribed any medications, apart from possibly antibiotics and Lortabs following her tooth extractions.
My Relationship with Milk Consumption
For nearly two decades, I have predominantly relied on milk as my primary source of hydration, consuming around five liters daily. Although I recognize that this reliance might not be the healthiest choice, my low appetite has perpetually left me underweight. In the past, I attempted to transition to drinking water; however, I noticed a concerning drop in weight along with persistent fatigue. My inquiry is whether there exists a more nutritious method to obtain calories without resorting to solid foods, and ideally, without incurring high costs?
When Can I Expect to Drive Again?
I’m a 35-year-old who suffered a spiral fracture in my right leg affecting both the fibula and tibia. Five weeks post-surgery, I've begun my rehabilitation journey, having undergone physical therapy for three weeks now. I’ve noticed that my leg is beginning to regain sensation, with improved control over my ankle and feeling returning to the sole of my foot. Given this progress, what is a realistic timeframe for when I might be able to drive safely once more?