Trench foot is a serious problem of the feet that is not very common nowadays that is caused by your feet getting kept wet for longer time periods. In the past, trench foot first obtained fame throughout the first World War once members of the military obtained the trench foot from fighting in cold, damp situations in the trenches. It's been estimated that over 75,000 English soldiers died in that world war on account of the difficulties from this condition. Since that time, the importance of soldiers fighting in trenches to keep their feet as dry as possible to forestall the problem is well-known. Trench foot can happen today in activities in which the foot is damp for prolonged amounts of time, such as hiking in moist conditions for several days.
The look of the foot with trench foot includes blisters, a spotty and wrinkly look and feel with the skin along with a redness. The signs and symptoms consist of coldness, a heaviness feeling, numbness, it can be painful when subjected to heat, prolonged itching, and a prickling feeling. Usually the entire foot is impacted, but sometimes it might be just a portion of the foot.
Trench foot is undoubtedly a result of feet which become wet and remain damp and don't get dried off thoroughly. Whilst cold might be a factor, it is the moisture that's critical. If the trench foot is not treated promptly it can cause issues including the requirement for an amputation, acute blisters, a painful foot, gangrene and ulcers, along with long-term nerve injury. Trench foot is very easy to identify in accordance with the appearance of the feet as well as the history of dampness.
As doctors have learned more about the character of trench foot the treatment have got better. Throughout the war, trench foot was initially addressed with bed rest and foot washes made from lead along with opium. As the signs got better, massages and plant-based oils had been applied. When the symptoms of trench foot wouldn't improve then amputation has been at times necessary to prevent infection and blood flow problems from spreading to other areas of the body.
The first and mild signs and symptoms of trench foot can easily be self-treated through getting rid of the hosiery and dry and clean your feet adequately; applying heat packs to the foot can help promote the circulation; and do not wear socks at night. The feet really should be examined very carefully for the development of any complications. In the event that this solution doesn't settle quickly or if the signs and symptoms tend to be severe, then a trip to a health professional is warranted. Even more rest and elevation of the leg is frequently encouraged. The quality of the blood flow will need to be looked at and if it is not sufficient then actions need to be taken to handle that. Medication could also be necessary to help with pain if that is a concern. If found early, trench foot is readily manageable without leading to any more problems. Prevention of trench foot is crucial, and soldiers are very well informed in that. The feet should be kept dry and possessing an extra pair of socks handy is a great option.