Often hidden away inside socks and shoes, our toes may not get the attention they deserve. Yet, they are powerful indicators of our general health, potentially signaling issues such as nutritional deficiencies, diabetes, circulatory problems, and even serious diseases like cancer.
A recent survey from LloydsPharmacy Online Doctor found that 50% of Brits rarely check their toes or toenails, and one in six remain unaware that their toes can reflect underlying health concerns.
Sheena Bagga, Pharmacist Prescriber at LloydsPharmacy Online Doctor, highlights the importance of monitoring toenail and foot health. She says, “While everyone’s toes look different, healthy nails should have a smooth surface with a light pink or translucent colour, without unusual variations.”
READ MORE: Inside the ‘Out of This World’ Former Observatory Near Wye Valley Up for Auction from £660,000
READ MORE: New Map Reveals Gloucester as Most Crime-Prone Area in Gloucestershire Despite Overall County Crime Drop
One common sign to watch for is yellow discoloration, which could indicate an infection, nail psoriasis, or separation from the nail bed. Maintaining short, clean nails, wearing fresh socks daily, and properly fitting shoes can help prevent these infections.
A particularly concerning symptom is Melanonychia—when a brown or black band runs lengthwise along the nail. Usually harmless and related to pigmentation, it can, in rare cases, be a sign of Subungual Melanoma, a dangerous form of skin cancer. Good nail hygiene and avoiding nail injury are key preventive measures.
Swollen toes may result from various causes, including lymphatic issues, poor circulation, or gout—a form of arthritis marked by intense pain in the big toe due to uric acid crystal buildup. Maintaining a healthy weight and diet can help manage gout and other causes of swelling. Sometimes, toe swelling is caused by less serious factors like prolonged standing, tight footwear, dehydration, or a high-salt diet.
White spots or lines on nails, called leukonychia, often arise from minor trauma but can also hint at protein or mineral deficiencies. Fungal infections may cause nails to turn white, brittle, and crumbly, especially if feet stay warm and moist. In rare cases, completely white nails might indicate systemic illnesses such as liver cirrhosis, hyperthyroidism, or diabetes.
A bluish tint on the nails, especially with coldness in the toes, can be a sign of poor circulation related to Raynaud’s disease, which narrows small arteries and impedes blood flow. Staying active and maintaining a healthy weight can improve circulation and help manage this condition.
Athlete’s Foot, a common fungal infection, causes itchy white patches between toes and sometimes blistering. Prevent it by keeping feet dry, especially between toes, and wearing clean, breathable socks daily.
Ulcers—open wounds on the skin, unlike blisters beneath the skin—require careful attention to avoid infection and complications such as amputation. Diabetic foot ulcers are especially serious as they heal slowly and increase infection risk.
Another key sign to watch for is toenails that become curved or spoon-shaped, potentially indicating iron deficiency or anemia. Iron is essential for healthy red blood cells and nails, and supplements may be needed after consulting a healthcare professional.
While many foot and nail issues are treatable, if you’re experiencing symptoms linked to diabetes, poor blood circulation, or nutritional deficits, it’s crucial to seek medical advice and maintain a balanced diet for overall wellbeing. Regularly inspecting your toes and toenails can serve as an early warning system to catch potential health problems before they worsen.