Why Are My Feet Red? Doctor Explains Possible Causes

A viewer tells us their feet have been turning bright red and they'd like to know what could cause this. Doctor Lacy Anderson has some possible explanations. 

There are several things that could cause your feet to turn bright red. Skin infections like athlete’s foot or fungal infections can sometimes cause cracks in the skin, usually in between the toes. Fungal infections can cause the feet to turn red, but they can also allow bacteria to enter the body and cause a cellulitis, or bacterial infection which could cause the foot to be bright red. With a cellulitis, the skin may feel hot and be tender to the touch and this should be treated with antibiotics. 

Other causes of a bright red foot could be a problem with the blood vessels. A blood clot, venous insufficiency or peripheral arterial disease can all cause redness of the feet.

If the great toe is suddenly bright red and extremely painful, that sounds more like a gout attack. Gout causes a sudden pain in a joint and the great toe is a common place for a gout flare. 

I’d recommend seeing your doctor to check both of your feet to see if they can find a cause and help start you on treatment for this.