Immersion foot syndromes

The Immersionsfuß ( Grabenfuß ) is a disorder of the foot by prolonged exposure to water. Chronicity of the disease leading to gangrene.

Formation

The Immersionsfuß occurs when the feet for an extended period, usually about twelve hours be immersed in water or continually wet.

Symptoms

Among other things, the thick outer skin of the sole is white and wrinkled. Some folds of the sole of the foot are very sensitive when walking. After a few days the pain is stronger and the feet swell slightly. The largest is the pain in the heel and ball of the foot.

When water temperature is from about 30 ° C, the top of the foot, the ankle, and possibly even the legs affected ( Dschungelfäule ) are additional. In addition, the pain and swelling are stronger and the skin is taut and hard. Fraying (eg caused by boots ) against the soft, moist skin can make large and deep abrasions occur. Even mild to moderate fever (38-40 ° C) is possible.

Treatment

The only way to counteract this suffering, is the drying or dry attitude of feet and legs. In order to stop the disease in its early stages, the wet skin of the feet and legs you have to let it dry for at least ten hours.

• Skin disease