Summer is here and now is a great time to get outdoors and take advantage of everything the season has to offer. People are out hiking, hitting the beach, playing sports, going to the pool, or just enjoying the sun. However, the sun can cause quite a few health problems. July is UV Awareness Month where we take the time to understand the health risks of UV rays, and this applies to your feet as well.
First, it’s always a good idea to consult an experienced specialist if you’re encountering any issues with your feet. So, what are UV rays? This is the radiation from the sun and a few other artificial sources like tanning beds. Why are they bad? Because UV radiation is the main cause of skin cancer.
What You Can Do
Fortunately, there are several things you can do to greatly reduce the risk of sun damage to your skin:
- Use sunscreen on your feet with SPF 30 or higher
- Make sure to reapply sunscreen every two hours
- Limit time outside when the sun is most intense
- Find shade
- Avoid tanning booths
What to Look For
Early detection of skin cancer can save your life and increases the likelihood of successful treatment. You can do a quick self-check. Here’s what to look for:
- Asymmetrical moles
- Discoloration
- Skin areas that are mottled or multi-colored
- Moles that are larger than a pencil eraser
For more tips or if you are experiencing any foot issues, see your foot doctor for proper treatment and to help prevent complications. At Atlantic Foot and Ankle Specialists, Dr. Melissa Robitaille and Dr. Todd Newsom treat virtually all types of foot and ankle disorders including bunions, hammertoes, ingrown toenails, and heel pain. Equipped with leading-edge technologies such as extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT) and laser surgery for toenail fungus, we provide specialized, compassionate service for patients in the Pooler, Georgia area of Chatham County. For any pain and discomfort you are experiencing with your feet and ankles, contact us today at (912) 988-3323.