ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Trench foot

Okay kiddo, have you ever gone swimming in the pool for a really long time and stayed in the water without getting out? Remember how your fingers and toes got all wrinkly and you felt strange sensations in them? This is what happens with "trench foot", but it's much worse!

Trench foot is something that happens to your feet when they are wet and cold for a very long time - like if you were stuck in the mud or water for days without being able to get out. It can also happen if you wear really wet and tight shoes for a long time.

When your feet are wet and cold for too long, the blood vessels in your feet start to close up and stop the blood from moving through your feet. This can make your feet feel numb or tingly, and it can also cause blisters and sores.

If you get trench foot, it can be very painful and it can take a long time to heal. So, it's really important to make sure that your feet stay clean and dry if you're going to be outside in wet or muddy places for a long time. Safety boots and waterproof socks can help protect your feet from trench foot.

Remember to always tell an adult if your feet are feeling numb or tingly and to never ignore the signs of trench foot as it can be really dangerous if left untreated.
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