Posted on September 17, 2009 in Foot Pain, Foot Problems
Prolonged exposure of the foot to cold, damp and unsanitary conditions can lead to trench foot. The foot can swell, become itchy, painful and infected. In rare cases, amputation of the foot may be required to prevent the spread of infection. Trench foot is also known as immersion foot, and the word comes from the soldiers from World War I who suffered foot problems when their feet were exposed to the trenches.
Symptoms of Trench Foot
Following are the symptoms of trench/immersion foot:
- Tingling/Itchiness
- Swelling
- Pain
- Numbness
- Cold feet
- The feet become red and dry after they have been warmed
Blistering
- Redness and peeling of skin
Treatment of Trench Foot:
Here are few ways to treat trench foot:
- Clean the feet to get rid of the dirt
- Dry the feet by elevating the feet
- Soak the foot in warm water. You can also use warm compresses to keep the feet from cold
- Get medical assistance if you observe blistering or swelling
Preventing Trench Foot
Following are the ways to prevent trench foot:
- Always use dry socks. Change your socks every day
- Use cotton socks which can absorb moisture effectively.
- Carry an extra pair of socks when going out for camping
- If your feet get wet, remove the shoes/socks and let your feet dry
Trench foot is commonly caused when the feet are exposed to cold, wet conditions for long periods of time. Avoiding prolonged exposure to moisture can keep you safe from this problem. If you find your feet red, swollen after exposure to moisture, immediately consult your doctor as delay in treatment can aggravate the problem.
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