There’s a colloquial saying that itchy feet means you’re going to start a great journey soon. That’s definitely an appealing notion, but unfortunately, itchy feet typically just mean there’s something wrong with your feet. That’s why our podiatrists are here though!
It’s important to take itchy feet seriously and figure out the issue before it turns into a major problem.
That’s why we put together the top five common itchy foot ailments.
Athlete’s foot is one of the most common culprits. This frustrating fungal infection causes itchiness between the toes, along with inflamed, scaly skin. This is one situation where scratching will definitely spread the fungal infection, so avoid scratching no matter how itchy it gets. Your podiatrist can help you find the right anti-fungal medication that will fight your foot fungus.
Dry skin can make you itch everywhere, but particularly on your feet. Since your feet don’t produce natural oils like other parts of your body, they are particularly susceptible to drying out. Yet again, scratching dry, flaky feet can damage them, opening yourself up to dangerous bacterial infections. There are plenty of foot creams and hydrating lotions that you can get to help clear up dry skin issues. Check with our podiatrists to find the best solution.
Sunburns can damage the skin on your feet badly, leaving them itchy and painful. Going barefoot during the hot months or wearing flip-flops exposes your skin to the sun’s harsh rays. Sunscreen is an incredibly important tool, especially in the hotter months - apply often! If you are suffering from a sunburn, calamine lotion and can help relieve the itchiness. For incredibly severe sunburns, check with your doctor immediately for relief.
Chilblains can cause itchy red swelling on your toes. Almost the opposite of a sunburn, chilblains develop during cold, wet weather. When your toes are cold, the surface blood vessels narrow. If they warm up too quickly, those blood vessels can’t cope, causing blood to leak into the surrounding tissues. Calamine lotion can also soothe chilblains, but if they don’t clear up within a week, you should come in to see our podiatrists ASAP.
Diabetic neuropathy occurs when high blood sugar levels cause nerve damage in your extremities. Your feet may start to itch from damaged nerve fibers in your skin’s outer layers, or you might experience severe burning or shooting pains or tingling in your feet. If you are diabetic, you should regularly check in with our podiatrists to prevent common issues like ulcers and neuropathy and to keep your feet healthy. If you suspect you’re developing diabetic neuropathy, consult with your doctor to discuss diabetic management.
High quality care for your feet
No matter the source of your itch, New Jersey Foot & Ankle Centers is here to help! Our dedicated foot care specialists, Dr. Daniel Margolin, Dr. Justin Donovan, and Dr. Alandra Greenlee, provide the best foot care and use advanced technologies to ensure that your feet can stay strong and healthy! Whether you have a fungal infection, heel pain, or have an injury that needs therapy, we are here to walk beside you to health and recovery! Book an appointment with our trusted New Jersey podiatrists by calling (201)261-9445 today! Telemedicine video appointments are available!
