Find out how a foot infection can easily turn severe and why you should see your Indianapolis podiatrist right away.
When we think about infections we don’t often think about it affecting our feet, but they can occur anywhere in our body. It’s important that we protect ourselves from bacteria and diseases even though can be impossible to avoid sometimes. Despite this, you should still see your 
Indianapolis, IN podiatrist Dr. Yong Chae immediately if you are experiencing any of these symptoms:
Fungal infection: While we might consider fungal infections of the foot (e.g. athlete’s foot) rather innocuous or self-limiting, it’s important that you still treat the problem rather than ignoring it. Luckily, fungal infections can often be easily treated with over-the-counter antifungal creams or oral medications.
However, if the fungal infection is left untreated it can spread to the toenails and cause cracks in the skin, which can lead to severe bacterial skin infections such as cellulitis. The first sign of cellulitis is a sore, red region of skin that will be hot to the touch.
Staph infection: Mentioned above, a staph infection (also known as cellulitis) can occur due to an untreated fungal infection. Symptoms include severe pain, problems walking and a red abscess on the foot. If a staph infection isn’t treated properly then you could develop a life-threatening condition known as sepsis (blood poisoning). If you notice any blisters, redness or pain in your feet you need to see your Indianapolis podiatrist right away.
Diabetic foot problems: Those with diabetes are at an increased risk for developing foot infections or other complications due to an infection. To ensure that serious complications do not arise, your Indianapolis, IN podiatrist Dr. Chae should even treat milder cases of inflammation or infection.
Are you noticing changes in your feet? Have you been diagnosed with diabetes? If so, then you need to schedule an appointment right away with your Indianapolis podiatrist, Dr. Chae. Active Podiatry takes your foot health seriously, and our goal is to do whatever possible to keep your feet healthy.