If your feet itch so much it’s difficult to concentrate at times, you’re not alone. There are a number of reasons why feet become annoyingly itchy, and Medical News Today recently explored both causes and treatments.
It’s important to understand why your feet are itchy because certain causes require medical treatment. Dermatologists at Park Avenue Dermatology evaluate and treat many patients with itchy feet.
Pruritus
Pruritus is the medical term for itchiness. The causes of pruritus are divided into four categories: Cutaneous, which is caused by a skin condition, neuropathic, which involves the nervous system, systemic, which is pruritus related to a condition of the entire body, and psychogenic, which is itchiness triggered by psychological origins. There can also be a combination of causes.
What Are the Main Causes of Itchy Feet?
Diabetes – Poor circulation from diabetes can cause itchy feet. Diabetic neuropathy frequently affects the feet. Itchy feet, numbness, and a tingling sensation are common symptoms.
Scabies – In this condition, very tiny mites actually burrow underneath the skin and lay eggs. Scabies is both contagious and extremely itchy. The itchiness is caused by the body’s allergic reaction to the mites, eggs, and their waste.
Hookworm – Hookworms are parasites that live in the intestines of infected people. The spot the hookworm entered becomes itchy. This condition requires medical treatment.
Athlete’s Foot – Any part of your feet can be affected by Athlete’s Foot, although the most common place is the area between the toes. This is a fungal infection that can be itchy and painful.
Peripheral Neuropathy – Damage to the nervous system affects the entire body and is one cause of itchy feet. Nerve damage can also cause numbness. This is a condition requiring medical evaluation.
Eczema – You may be familiar with eczema by its name atopic dermatitis. Eczema causes very dry, crusty, and itchy skin, and sometimes blisters. The causes of eczema are not fully known, but you can consult with a Park Avenue Dermatology provider for treatment.
Burns – It is very common to have itchiness after the burn has healed. For many patients, the itchiness is a long-term problem.
Psoriasis – Scaly, tender, red skin are the classic symptoms of psoriasis. Psoriasis is caused by the immune system attacking healthy cells, resulting in a condition that is intensely itchy and frequently painful. Lotions and creams containing salicylic acid or corticosteroids are often used to treat psoriasis.
Dry Skin – Many factors cause dry skin. You can treat itchy feet using home remedies. Slather creams, lotions, or oil on your feet for relief.
Allergic Reactions – Any skin allergy can cause itchy feet. Antihistamines taken for the allergic reaction should help to reduce itchiness.
Dermatologist Visit Or Home Treatment?
As you can see, itchy feet are caused by a number of conditions. Try soaking your feet in oatmeal baths and liberally apply moisturizer to soothe your feet to reduce the itch. Avoid scratching your feet. Make an appointment with your Park Avenue Dermatology specialist to have your itchy feet evaluated.
