Common Skin Problems | GB Podiatry Clinic

Common skin problems....

The skin is the largest organ of the body and protects us from microbes and the elements, it helps regulate body temperature, and permits the sensations of touch, heat, and cold.

Tinea Pedis (Athlete's Foot)

Athlete's foot (tinea pedis) is a fungal skin infection that usually begins between the toes. It commonly occurs in people whose feet have become very sweaty while confined within tight-fitting shoes. It is often red, itchy and scaly and can be contagious.

Verruca (Plantar wart)

Verrucae are plantar warts that commonly occur on the soles of the feet or around the toe area. They are caused by the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV), which is contagious through direct person-to-person contact. The HPV virus is thought to thrive in moist, damp environments such as swimming pools, changing room floors and communal shower areas. They mainly affect children and teenagers but can affect any age. They can be singular or develop in small clusters and can be uncomfortable especially on weight bearing areas of the foot.

Corns - (Heloma Durum/Molle/Mille)

A corn is a cone-shaped and often painful inwardly directed callus that forms over a pressure point near a bone, or on a weight-bearing part of the body. Corns can be so painful they can inhibit walking.

There are a few variations of corns such as hard, soft, vascular and seed corns.

Calluses (Hyperkeratosis)

A callus is an area of rough, thickened and sometimes hardened skin that forms as a response to repeated friction, pressure, or other irritation. Calluses tend to develop on pressure spots, such as the heels and balls of the feet and toes.

Wound care (Ulceration)

A ulcer is an open sore which may involve the full thickness of the skin. It may involve tendons, bones and other deep structures. People with diabetes and people with poor circulation are more likely to develop foot ulcers which may be difficult to heal. They can become infected and lead to other complications if not attended to quickly.

Venous ulcers affect the legs below the knees, often in people with a history of leg swelling and related vein conditions.

Diabetic foot ulcers often occur on the bottom of the feet in those with diabetes.

Arterial (ischaemic) ulcers develop all over the feet in those with poor circulation.

Chill blains (Erythema Pernio)

Chillblains are an inflammation of the small vessels in the skin often due to exposure to the cold. They are often found on the fingers and toes, They can become painful and itchy and may blister.