Feet
Dear Dr. Jen,
I have painful cracks on my feet. There are times when it improves with petroleum jelly, and at other times it just gets so deep. It hurts when I walk. I’ve tried a couple of cracked-heel creams but none have worked. Please recommend something effective.
Susan
Dear Susan,
Cracked heels may be caused by allergy to footwear or flooring. This can range from rubber, leather, plastic or the glue that holds cloth shoes together. Tiles, cement, carpet and such can also lead to allergies in some individuals. While identification of the cause of allergy is of utmost priority, it is also important to treat the cracks.
Applying strong steroid creams can help. Also, if there is limited response to ointments and creams, injecting medication into the thick soles will also be an option. It might be necessary to have it checked. If allergy is not the case, some fungal infections can also be present in cracked heels.
Dear Dr. Jen,
My toenails are thickened and yellowish. It’s been like this for a while. I tried Nizoral cream which seems to help a bit. Are there any stronger creams you can prescribe?
Gary
Dear Gary,
Nail fungal infection shows as thickened nails, discoloration and even nail brittleness. Common ways of catching onychomycosis is through use of infected nail paraphernalia. Also, wearing non-breathable closed footwear with sweaty feet can predispose the feet to nail fungus.
There are only two treatment options for nail fungus. Oral treatment with Itraconazole or Terbinafine is usually a better option. For those not wanting to take any oral medication, antifungal solutions (medicated nail lacquer) applied for several months can also do the trick. Creams are not absorbed by the nails.
Dr. Tan is a diplomate of Philippine Dermatological Society (PDS) and is affiliated with the Perpetual Succour Hospital (PSH). Information on PDS is at www.pds.org.ph. Questions or concerns regarding the skin may be sent by text to 0932 857 7070 or emailed to [email protected]; or coursed thru The Freeman – (032) 2531276, or thru PSH – (032) 2338620 and 2325929. Inquiries will be forwarded to Dr. Tan.
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