Toe, Foot, And Ankle Problems, Noninjury: Check Your Symptoms

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When to See a Doctor

Do you have skin changes on your feet or between your toes?

See significance of skin changes if you need information to help you answer the questions below.

Review health risks that may increase the seriousness of your symptoms.

Call your health professional immediately if you answer "Yes" to the following question.

Yes

Do you have skin changes on your feet, you know or think you have a fever, and you have diabetes, peripheral arterial disease, or an immune system problem? Skin changes on your feet may include:

• Peeling, cracking, chapping, or scaling skin.
• Redness or softening (maceration) of the skin.
• A blister, ulcer, pit, or sore on the skin.

Call your health professional today if you answer "Yes" to any of the following questions.

Yes

Do you have skin changes and signs of infection?

Yes

Do you have skin changes on your feet and you have diabetes, peripheral arterial disease, or an immune system problem, but you do not have a fever?

You need an appointment within the next 1 to 2 weeks if you answer "Yes" to any of the following questions.

Yes

Do you have symptoms of athlete's foot that have not improved after 2 weeks of home treatment?

Yes

Do you have a problem with foot odor that has not improved after 2 weeks of home treatment?

If you have answered "No" to the above questions, go back to Check Your Symptoms and continue to answer the questions to evaluate your symptoms.

Last updated:	October 27, 2008
Author:	Jan Nissl, RN, BS
Reviewed By:	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine, Gavin W.G. Chalmers, DPM - Podiatry and Podiatric Surgery
Editors:	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Tracy Landauer