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Trench foot (immersion foot)

Also called: Trench foot, immersion foot

Damage from feet being cold and wet for a long time, causing numbness, swelling, and skin damage.

PreventionDry socks

Overview

Feet that stay cold and wet for hours lose blood flow and nerve function.

It can happen above freezing.

Symptoms

Common signs:

  • Numb, swollen feet
  • Foot pain

Less common

  • Blisters

When to get medical care

Call 911This isn't an emergency by itself. Call 911 for trouble breathing, chest pain, or fainting.
Get care todayBlack skin.
See a doctor soonSymptoms that last or keep coming back.

Causes

Cold, wet feet.

Does it spread or run in families?

  • It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.

Who is more likely to get it

  • Homeless
  • Hikers

Possible complications

Diagnosis

A clinician asks about your symptoms and may order tests.

The exam

A physical exam.

Tests

Tests, if needed:

  • Exam:

Treatment

Treatment depends on the cause and how severe it is.

Self-care

  • Dry and warm feet gently
  • Change socks often

Prevention

To lower your risk or prevent problems:

  • Change into dry socks often
  • Air out feet daily

Which doctor treats this

  • Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).

Children, pregnancy, and older adults

  • Hikers, soldiers, and people without housing: Higher risk.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

  • If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
  • Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
  • Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
  • Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

Outlook

Most recover with care.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

What to bring

  • A list of your medicines and supplements
  • Notes on when symptoms started and what makes them better or worse

Questions to ask

  • What's causing this?
  • What treatment do you recommend?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Trench foot (immersion foot)

Sources

Last updated 2026-11-12.