Your Feet and Thyroid Disease

January is Thyroid Awareness Month! Our thyroid plays such a large role in how our body functions, controlling things like our heart rate and hormones. Did you know there’s a connection between the health of your thyroid and your feet? When you have thyroid disease, your feet will actually give you signs that your thyroid is acting up. Below are some of the ways this can show up!

1. Dry, Itchy Feet

   Those with hypothyroidism are likely familiar with dry, cracked, sometimes leathery skin. This can go beyond your arms and legs, affecting the skin of your feet, too. If your feet are especially dry, it could be a sign of a thyroid issue. Along with dry skin, you may find your feet extra itchy and tingly. Try using lotion on your feet to help with your skin's dryness.

2.  Smelly Feet

   When it comes to hyperthyroidism, excessive sweat is common! Sweaty, smelly feet can point to your thyroid. Luckily, there are ways to combat this side effect while you fight your thyroid disorder. For tips on smelly feet, check out our recent article!

3. Cold Feet

   Hypothyroidism (or an underactive thyroid) interferes with your body's metabolism, which controls your heartbeat and body temperature. This can lead to reduced circulation and eventually cold feet. Notice your feet are cold most of the time, even when you have warm socks and blankets on? Look into hypothyroidism.

Here at PodiatryCare, PC, and the Heel Pain Center, we specialize in custom orthotics, along with various other foot and ankle ailments. Dr. Charlotte George, Dr. Matthew Tschudy, Dr. Rebecca Wiesner, Dr. Kristen Winters, Dr. Laura Vander Poel, and the rest of our team are dedicated to helping our Hartford County patients. To schedule an appointment at our Enfield location, call (860) 741-3041; for an appointment at our South Windsor location, call (860) 644-6525.