Itchy feet are not only bothersome but can indicate an underlying problem. Don’t let your itchy feet interfere with your daily activities when there are a variety options that your podiatrist can recommend to help eliminate the itch.
Common Causes of Itchy Feet
Dry skin and bug bites are two of the most common causes of itchy feet. Some other causes for itchy feet include:
- Athlete’s foot. A fungal infection such as Athlete’s foot can cause dryness, itching, and redness in between the toes and on the skin of the feet.
- Dermatitis. Dermatitis can be caused by an allergic reaction or coming into direct contact with an irritant such as a chemical. Dermatitis produces an inflammatory response which often causes severe itching.
- Psoriasis. Psoriasis is an autoimmune condition that causes red scaly patches on the feet and legs. It can be both painful and itchy.
- Peripheral neuropathy. Peripheral neuropathy is the result of damage to the nerves in the feet and legs. It is common among those who are diabetic and causes a loss of sensation to the feet. This loss of sensation can produce symptoms such as tingling or numbness, but can also cause itching.
In some cases, itching may feel severe at night than during the day. This can be due to you being more aware of the itching and focusing on it when you are not as busy. It can also be due to nerves being more sensitive when you do not wear shoes or socks.
Prolonged scratching can make an itch worse. If the itch is caused by a fungal infection, scratching can spread the fungus to other areas.
If you have itching on your feet that interferes with your daily activities or is worsening, contact a podiatrist for a consultation.
Treating Feet That Itch
Once your podiatrist determines what is causing the itch, specific treatments can be recommended. For example, if your itchy feet are due to an allergic reaction to a certain product, avoiding that product can often solve the problem. For itchy feet due to dry skin, moisturizing the feet and wearing socks to protect the feet can often help eliminate the itch. In addition, some other treatments that can relieve itchy feet are:
- Over-the-counter medications such as antihistamines
- Antifungal sprays or creams
- Topical steroid cream
- Prescription medications or ointments
If you have itchy feet, contact Greater Washington Advanced Podiatry for an evaluation. We can provide a free consultation and create a personalized treatment plan to fit your specific needs. To set up an appointment, fill out our contact form or call us at (301) 515-FEET.
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