Itchy Feet

Itchy feet can be accompanied by mild to serious symptoms. You can experience:

• Dry, flaky skin
• White, moist skin
• Red, peeling skin
• Burning on the soles of feet

If you have itchy feet, it is best to see a physician so that you can be accurately diagnosed. You may have something as simple as dry skin or something more serious like eczema or athlete’s foot.

Eczema

Eczema appears as a rash with dry, thickened, scaly skin. The exact cause of eczema is unknown and flare ups can happen as a result of contact with certain substances or from certain conditions. Your physician will help to relieve and prevent itching. Lotions, creams, cold compresses, hydrocortisone, and antihistamines are a few ways used to relieve symptoms.

Athlete’s Foot

Athlete’s foot can also be accompanied by red rashes and burning between the toes and/or blisters and ulcers on top of the feet. It can develop from fungi living in showers, pools, gyms and poorly ventilated shoes. Common treatments are anti-fungal powders or sprays. You can prevent athlete’s foot by not walking barefoot in public areas that are damp and humid and wearing breathable shoes and socks.

Image by Care_SMC. Eczema on top of foot. (2008). Flickr.