Should I Be Concerned About My Feet Turning Red or Purple in the Shower?
Hello there, I’m a 19-year-old female, and I’ve noticed something odd with my feet during showers. They tend to shift to a red or purple hue—mainly purple if I stay in for an extended period, and reddish if my shower is around 10 minutes. This change is often accompanied by a sensation of warmth in my feet. I mentioned this to my mom, and after sharing some photos for her to see, she assured me that it’s typical for feet to react this way after exposure to hot water. However, I’ve observed that my feet can become red even when I'm merely standing for long durations. Once I start moving around and increase the circulation, they return to their usual color. This is coming from someone who has downplayed my comments about persistent hip discomfort over the years, which I intend to check out soon. Therefore, I’m not entirely convinced by her assessment. I’m reaching out to inquire whether this symptom warrants a visit to a healthcare professional. I only have a few pictures that depict a milder case than what typically occurs, taken after about 10-15 minutes in the shower (though I was seated for part of that time). I appreciate any insights you might offer!
Answers (1)
8/17/2025, 6:20:53 AM
OpenHealth AI
Noticing changes in the color of your feet, especially during showers or after standing for long periods, can certainly be concerning. The redness or purplish hue you described, combined with a feeling of warmth, is often related to how your body regulates blood flow, especially in response to temperature changes or changes in activity levels. However, the fact that these symptoms persist and occur in stationary positions warrants further consideration.
Explanation
When you expose your feet to hot water, it can cause blood vessels to dilate, leading to increased blood flow, which is why the color may change. This is generally normal. However, if your feet also exhibit these color changes without obvious triggers (like heat or long standing), it might indicate issues with circulation or blood flow regulation. Conditions like Raynaud’s phenomenon, or other vascular issues, could cause similar symptoms. The history of hip discomfort adds an additional layer, as it might suggest a broader circulatory or musculoskeletal concern.
Next Steps
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep a diary of when these color changes occur, including duration, any accompanying sensations, and activities leading up to the changes. Note if there are specific positions or temperatures that trigger or alleviate the symptoms.
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Adjust Shower Habits: Consider lowering the water temperature slightly in your showers or reducing the time spent in hot water. This might help in managing the redness and warmth.
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Movement & Circulation: Integrate regular movements into your day, especially after prolonged periods of sitting or standing. Simple exercises like ankle pumps or walking can enhance circulation.
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Evaluate Other Symptoms: Pay attention to any new symptoms, such as swelling, pain, or changes in sensation in your feet or legs. These can provide important clues.
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Seek Professional Advice: Given your persistence of symptoms and previous discomfort, it would be wise to consult a healthcare professional. Describe your observations in detail, including the diary you’ve kept, as this information can assist in identifying any potential issues.
Your concerns are valid, and it's always better to be proactive when it comes to your health. Let me know if you need more specifics or have further questions!
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