Heels cracked and sore - could this be a side effect of my chemo?

Hi, I’m having chemo and the last couple of days I’ve noticed my heels are really sore. The skin is cracking to the point where it looks like it’s bleeding and they hurt to put pressure on. Is this a side-effect or do I just need to look after my feet better?! I don’t have any soreness or dry skin anywhere else. When I looked at side-effects I’ve read you can get something on your hands and feet but it sounded more like inside the feet. Thanks. 

  • Hello and thanks for your post,

    I am sorry to hear about your skin issue affecting your feet. Some chemotherapy drugs can cause HFS (hand foot syndrome), a condition that leads to redness, swelling, soreness, cracking, and peeling on the palms and soles. Do tell your hospital treatment team about this. They can prescribe medications to help.

    Do wear cotton socks and comfortable footwear. Cracked skin can be a route in for infection so, it is important to wash your feet with cool, not hot, water. Use mild, fragrance-free soaps. Avoid skin scrubs and lotions and creams with alcohol, perfumes, dyes, or other harsh ingredients that can irritate dry skin. 

    Apply a rich, emollient cream daily, particularly after a lukewarm (not hot) shower or bath. Look for products containing ingredients like urea (5-10%). Such as the Brand Eucerin or Boots. Your doctor may be able to prescribe skin creams.

    I hope that you get help with this soon,

    Best wishes,

    Vanda