My feet are very itchy. Causes and treatment of itchy feet
Tingling may have neurological causes.
Below are some of the main causes of itchy feet. Most of them can be dealt with at home, but if the itching recurs periodically, consult a doctor.
If your feet are itchy and itchy, it's most likely due to dryness or another mild irritant. Contact your doctor if you experience any of the following symptoms:
- Feet itch for two weeks or more.
- The skin is red or inflamed even if it is not scratched.
- You have other symptoms, such as fever or fatigue.
If the symptoms listed above are not about your condition, then below you can familiarize yourself with the 12 most common causes.
This is one of the most common reasons, but, as a rule, it is temporary.
Dry, rough skin is often itchy and itchy, but this is often due to environmental factors. Hard, rough skin may be the result of an inherited condition called ichthyosis.
Reasons
Skin becomes excessively dry if it loses its natural oils. This can be caused by showering too often and using too much soap.
Other causes include dehydration, swimming, dry or cold weather and heating systems, excessive sun exposure and the use of soaps containing fragrances and dyes.
Very dry skin can be caused by diseases such as hypothyroidism and Sjögren's syndrome. As we age, the skin becomes dry, so itching is a common problem for older people.
Treatment and prevention
- Creams containing lactic acid and urea, as well as ointments containing petroleum jelly, are used immediately after bathing to help the skin retain moisture.
- Dry skin can be prevented by reducing the frequency of bathing or showering and using soap in moderation.
- Using a humidifier in a dry room.
- Use detergents without fragrances or dyes.
- Wearing soft fabrics, including silk and cotton.
- Drinking enough liquid. Clear urine in the morning (about 200 ml) is an indicator of good hydration of the body.
- Avoid wind and direct exposure to sunlight.
Goosebumps (goosebumps)
Follicular keratosis on the arm.
These are not the same ones that frozen people feel. This is a rash in which hair follicles on the thighs or other areas (usually the upper arms) of the skin coalesce and form itchy patches. The condition, called keratosis pilaris by doctors, is a cluster of red or brown goosebumps.
Cause
Keratosis pilaris occurs as a result of an increase in keratin. It is hereditary but usually disappears before the age of 30.
Treatment and prevention
Keratosis pilaris bumps can be treated so that they disappear, but they almost always reappear. Dryness can make the condition worse.
Keratosis pilaris bumps can be treated so that they disappear, but they almost always reappear.
Folliculitis
Folliculitis or infected hair follicle.
When the hair follicles on the skin become infected. The bumps that appear are usually red in color and constantly itch and itch. They may also be filled with pus and become painful. They often appear on the thighs or, more often, in athletes who wear tight sportswear.
Cause
This rash is usually caused by staph (staph infection).
With proper hygiene, the lesions will heal on their own within a few days.
If it persists, antibacterial soap or ointment containing mupirocin may help.
For common infections, antibiotic tablets may be the most effective treatment.
Itching in the legs below the knee after running
When jogging after a long break from sports, we may notice intense itching in our legs below the knee and on our stomach.
This condition is called “runner's itch” and is most often found on the thighs and calves.
Reasons
Runner's itch occurs when blood vessels become weakened due to inactivity and then become active. Dilated blood vessels can irritate the nerves adjacent to them.
Treatment and prevention
Muscle loads will help get rid of unpleasant sensations.
Acne
They can appear on the skin of the arms, thighs, feet, buttocks and will not necessarily itch or itch.
Cause
Acne appears due to poor hygiene, psychological stress or an inappropriate diet.
Treatment and prevention
Physical activity, increasing fluid intake, reducing or completely eliminating fatty foods from the diet will help get rid of acne.
Cholinergic urticaria
Reaction after contact with coniferous wood
Cholinergic urticaria appears as a bumpy rash on the thighs, upper torso, or arms, and can be caused by a variety of causes.
Hives caused by urticaria can appear after exercise, as well as after being in a high temperature room, or even with emotional reactions such as excitement, shock, laughter and stress. The rash may appear a few minutes after you start running or shortly after taking a hot shower; the skin may be very itchy for 30-120 minutes.
Reasons
Doctors believe these symptoms are caused by an allergic reaction of the body to its own sweat.
Treatment and prevention
Avoid working in hot weather and stop working immediately if itching occurs. If possible, do not scratch the skin - scratching will worsen the itching. Antihistamines taken at least 30 minutes before showering or exercising may provide relief.
Itching after shower
If your skin loses too much of its natural protective layer during bathing, it can become dry and itchy.
Reasons
Too often hot showers and excessive use of soap, which strip the skin's protective oils and natural oils.
Treatment and prevention
Try using warm rather than hot water. Limit the amount of soap you use.
Lichen
Fungal ringworm is a rash similar to ringworm inguinal photo
Ringworm, also known as tinea groin, is a fungal infection of the skin. Most often it occurs on the inner thighs, genitals or buttocks, and is a large red or brown rash that is itchy and itchy.
Cause
Growth is caused by moisture and heat.
Treatment and prevention at home
Antifungal drugs are used for treatment, most often in the form of ointments.
For the purpose of prevention, you should avoid sweating in the groin area (you should wear light and comfortable clothes) and use antifungal soap.
Poor hygiene
As sweat dries, it is destroyed by bacteria, which can irritate nerve endings. Heat and friction from clothing can aggravate this sensation, causing your feet to itch a lot.
Treatment and prevention
Swim regularly. Try using warm rather than hot water and mild soap to avoid stripping the protective oil layer from the skin.
New Pants Syndrome Itch
This fancy term describes the itch that comes from wearing new, unwashed pants or trousers.
Cause: irritants on unwashed fabric.
Treatment and prevention: Take a shower and wash your clothes.
photo of wool socks on a guy's feet
- This is a non-contagious inflammatory skin disease, accompanied by a variety of rashes, burning sensation, itching, a tendency to relapse and itches a lot. Almost 20% of children suffer from eczema, but most eczema disappears after the child turns 10 years old.
Reasons
The causes of eczema are not fully understood. It is believed that eczema is an overactive immune response of the body to irritants.
Treatment and prevention
If left untreated, itchy eczema can be made worse by secondary infections. Lotions and creams should be applied to damp skin; they help the skin retain moisture. Cold ones also relieve itching. Hydrocortisone creams (1%) and prescription steroid creams and ointments also reduce inflammation.
Chronic eczema
It appears as a rough, reddish or purple lump and causes itchy skin on the lower legs, legs and feet. Occurs when there are circulatory problems, including varicose veins, vein thrombosis or other blood vessel diseases.
Reasons
Inflammation from circulatory disorders allows fluid to accumulate in the skin. Leakage of fluid into other tissues causes irritation.
Treatment and prevention
Corticosteroids, including hydrocortisone, may help treat the rash.
Wearing compression stockings prevents problems with blood vessels in the legs.
Other causes of itchy feet
Eczema on toes in men photo
Wool and other fabrics can irritate the skin of your legs and feet.
The cause of itching can be a lack of vitamins and minerals: iron deficiency (anemia), vitamin C deficiency, deficiency of one or more B vitamins, and less commonly, vitamin A or vitamin K deficiency. Note: if you have normal levels of these vitamins in your blood, then It is unlikely that dietary supplements will help reduce itching.
Soaps, shampoos, lotions, creams or other cosmetics can cause skin irritation or contact dermatitis.
Allergies of any kind can itch and cause itching that affects the legs from the knees down to the lower legs. Typical symptoms are red and swollen skin, a red rash on the soles of the feet, and in severe cases, blisters on the feet (urticaria) or a rougher, scaly rash (contact allergy eczema).
Boots or waterproof shoes worn for a long time cause. The moisture allows the feet to settle, causing severe itching.
Prolonged sitting or prolonged standing causes congestion in the blood vessels of the legs, which can also cause itching in the feet or calves, especially in people with varicose veins.
Mosquito bites
Mosquito and other insect bites, especially after scratching, can cause local redness and itching that usually goes away after a few hours or a few days.
Any etiology (due to heart, liver or kidney problems, venous thrombosis, elephantiasis) can be associated with itching.
Liver diseases, clogged bile ducts, kidney diseases with increased levels of phosphates in the blood can cause itchy skin.
Touching nettles causes a burning sensation, redness and swelling, which then itch for many hours.
Minor cuts and scrapes can become itchy if you apply medicated ointment to the affected area.
Restless legs syndrome
This neurological disorder mainly affects women rather than men. The sensation is more like a tingling sensation than an itching sensation that makes you want to move your legs. The sensation occurs when the legs are at rest, especially at night, which makes sleep restless and sometimes impossible.
Cause
It's still not clear exactly what causes restless legs syndrome, but it is a neurological rather than a dermatological condition. The syndrome can be caused by a lack of magnesium or iron.
Treatment and prevention
Exercise and eliminating caffeine and alcohol from the diet may relieve symptoms.
Conclusion
The sensation of irritated skin below the knees can range from mildly uncomfortable to completely crippling itching. Constant itching can lead to constant scratching, which can damage the skin.
Skin that itches and itches in the same place has many causes, from dry skin to dermatitis. The affected area may appear normal or red, damaged and rough. Since itchy skin can be very annoying, it is important for sufferers to understand what conditions can cause it and how it can be treated.
Signs and symptoms
Itchy skin below the knee area can be uncomfortable. The itchy feeling may be localized just below the knee, but it can also spread to other parts of the body. This can make daily activities difficult, especially if the itching is severe and lasts longer than six weeks. Prolonged itching is called chronic.
Reasons
Dry skin is a common cause of itchy skin that is not accompanied by a rash. Loss of moisture due to dry air, especially in winter, can cause skin itching, cracking or peeling.
Other common causes include: eczema, psoriasis, impetigo, hives, aging skin and contact with irritants such as soaps, chemicals or wool.
Internal disorders, such as liver or kidney disease, usually affect the entire body rather than one localized area.
Home remedies and care
For the most part, treatment can be done at home. A cold compress applied to the skin below the knees may relieve symptoms.
Wear loose-fitting, lightweight clothing (especially at night), and avoid rough fabrics such as wool. Apply moisturizer to your skin year-round, especially in winter, to reduce dry skin.
Apply hydrocortisone cream to itchy areas or try an over-the-counter antihistamine if the itching is due to allergies.
Additionally, lotions that contain camphor, calamine, or pramoxine may also help. For severe or persistent itching, consult your doctor to determine the exact cause.
The doctor may also suggest a prescription antihistamine, opioid receptor antagonist drug, or corticosteroid.
Shower and bath
Although itchy skin can be caused by many factors, there are various ways to prevent it.
A person suffering from itchy skin should only douse himself or take a bath in warm or cool water. Hot water can strip your skin of moisture. It is also important to rinse off all soap after finishing bathing. Soaps and cleansers should be gentle and have a low pH level.
Don't scratch irritated areas
Constant scratching can lead to increased itching. Left untreated, it can cause a condition called neurodermatitis. This leads to the often scratched areas of the skin becoming inflamed.
The affected area may appear darker or redder than the surrounding skin. Additionally, repeated scratching behind the knee can cause permanent scarring, hyperpigmentation of the skin, or even a bacterial infection.
Bottom of leg pimple photo
Itching on the foot is a very unpleasant problem that causes great discomfort. Irritation most often occurs due to damage to the skin on the body.
Itching can also signal the appearance of a hidden disease in the body, which only a doctor can determine. The disease progresses very quickly, accompanied by the appearance of cracks and wounds on the skin, which can become infected by various infections. The affected areas are often:
- fingers and the space between them;
- sole;
- knees;
- hands (especially palms);
- face;
- groin and genital area.
The causes and treatment of this disease will be discussed in this article.
Contents [Show]
Reasons
Human skin contains a huge number of nerve endings that react to any irritation. When an inflammatory or allergic process occurs, the skin releases a special substance - histamine, which irritates the endings and causes itching. In addition to itching, histamine provokes dilation of blood vessels and tissue swelling, so irritated areas may become red and swollen.
Today, there are a huge number of reasons that can cause itchy feet:
- severe dry skin on the legs is due to the characteristics of the human body;
- somatic diseases;
- fungal, bacterial infections (scabies);
- skin diseases (dermatitis, dermatoses, folliculitis, impetigo);
- allergic reactions (to food, cosmetics, medications, clothing, animals);
- bites of various insects;
- mechanical damage (uncomfortable shoes, bruises, burns);
- severe stress;
- disturbances in the functioning of the immune system;
- diabetes mellitus
Diagnostics
Since this disease has many causes, you should first go to the hospital to establish them. It is not recommended to start therapy on your own, as this can be a waste of time and money. The duration of treatment depends on the time of contacting a doctor and quickly identifying the cause. If there are no obvious signs of itching on the skin, then the problem needs to be looked for internally. To do this, a number of tests are prescribed:
A blood test may reveal a more precise cause of itchy feet.
Depending on the cause of the disease, there will be different symptoms of the disease.
If the itching factor is skin scabies, then the disease will spread very quickly, moving from one place to another.
The most severe manifestations of the disease occur at night, since it is during this period that the body is most relaxed and in a calm state. The skin begins to itch very much, and the patient simply cannot sleep. A mite can cause severe and intense scabies. It begins to move actively, leaving small, gray tracks under the skin.
In addition to scabies, there are other skin diseases:
- neurodermatitis;
- eczema;
- psoriasis.
They especially affect the knees and the area under the knees. The skin begins to itch, peel, become red and covered with small blisters. Scabies can intensify very sharply and disappear just as quickly.
If the irritation is caused by an allergic reaction, the nose, ears, backs of the hands, knees and feet may itch. Rare signs may include swelling of the larynx, nausea, dizziness, and weakness of the whole body. To eliminate these signs, it is necessary to determine the pathogen causing the allergy.
In women and people suffering from excess body weight, itching is very often caused by vascular disease, for example, varicose veins, thrombophlebitis, endarteritis. The legs feel very heavy, tired, they begin to swell, itchy, and the feet are very itchy.
Prolonged itching can be a consequence of a fungal disease - mycosis, which can be infected by frequent visits to public places, such as:
- gyms;
- saunas;
- baths;
- swimming pools.
Symptoms of mycosis will be thickening and redness of the skin of the fingers and between them. Cracks appear, which in addition to itching will cause burning and pain. In addition to all this, it will be impossible to scratch the wound, since an infection may get into it, which will cause infection. It will be very difficult to cure the disease, as it will appear again and again.
Treatment
This disease must be treated under the close supervision of a dermatologist. Only he can, using diagnostics, correctly determine the cause of the disease and prescribe an effective course of treatment.
Types of treatment:
- medicinal;
- traditional methods.
Drug treatment is prescribed when the feet, knees, arms, body are very itchy, and there is simply no more strength to endure this itching (after all, you should not scratch the skin - this can lead to the formation of large scratches and wounds). To do this, the doctor prescribes antihistamines that will help relieve irritation, swelling and redness. Medicines can be purchased at any pharmacy.
Antihistamines are divided into three main groups:
The most common antihistamines that alleviate the course of the disease are:
- diazolin;
- suprastin;
- tavegil;
- claritin;
- erius;
- Telfast;
- fenkarol;
- Loratadine.
In addition to antiallergic drugs for internal use, doctors widely use ointments to treat itching. All external medications in the treatment of this disease are divided into:
- Antihistamines - improve capillary permeability, the effect can be expected within 15 minutes (Fenistil, Psilo-balm).
- Corticosteroids – used to treat a localized area of itching (Lokoid, Celederm). Long-term use is prohibited due to the possible development of atrophy.
- Anesthetics for local use - they contain novocaine or lidocaine, which relieves the patient’s condition.
- Calcineurin inhibitors (Elocom, Advantan) - have a pronounced effect and actively help reduce inflammation on the skin.
- Sedatives (Gelarium Hypericum, Novo-passit, Persen).
- Ointments with healing and antimicrobial properties (Bepanten, Spasatel, D-panthenol).
If there is an associated infection, the doctor may recommend taking antibiotics, because pustules very often appear in areas of the rash. This group of drugs is prescribed after studying the results of the studies. To do this, a scraping is taken from the skin and an antibiogram is performed. The course of treatment does not exceed 10 days, and most often drugs from the group of penicillins, cephalosporins, and macrolides are used.
Traditional methods
You can also get rid of the disease using traditional methods. There are many effective recipes:
- Treatment of itching with celandine. Take a teaspoon of dry celandine (which can be purchased at a pharmacy) and pour a glass of hot water. Leave the broth for fifteen minutes, then strain through a sieve. Wipe the irritated areas of the skin with the resulting tincture.
- Propolis – has strong antibacterial properties. Take gauze, apply propolis ointment on it and apply it to the itchy area, the itching will go away within 10 minutes. In addition to the ointment, you can also use 10% propolis tincture, spread it on the affected areas, it softens the skin and relieves itching.
- Melissa tea has a calming effect and relieves skin irritation. The recipe is very simple, add hot water to a tablespoon of the herb, drink it morning and evening for a month.
- Mumiyo is a natural product that is mined in the mountains. Minerals and organic substances contained in mumiyo promote rapid regeneration of damaged skin. Moisten the bandage with the solution and apply a compress for 15 - 20 minutes, it will help relieve inflammation and scabies.
- Soda. Take a teaspoon of baking soda and add water to make a soda paste. Apply it to itchy areas, keep it until it dries, and then rinse with warm water.
Prevention
To prevent and permanently get rid of itchy feet, always follow these preventive measures:
- wear high-quality and comfortable shoes made from natural materials;
- do not use other people’s personal hygiene products;
- If a wound, cut or bite appears, treat the skin with an antiseptic;
- when visiting public places, wear only your slippers;
- every day wash your feet well with soap from the feet to the knees;
- watch your diet, take vitamins;
- Wear cotton socks rather than synthetic ones.
Take treatment very seriously, otherwise an untreated illness will appear again and again, each time bringing with it all the most unpleasant consequences.
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Itchy feet are often accompanied by burning, peeling and redness of the skin. If such symptoms occur systematically, then you should not postpone going to the doctor. The most common cause of itching is a fungus (mycosis). But this is far from the only pathology that can cause discomfort in the foot area.
Itchy feet may indicate a fungus
Why do my feet itch?
Itching can act as a symptom and indicate the presence of hidden diseases. A person may have itchy palms and feet, fingers, knees, face, and groin area. Many infectious and fungal diseases, as well as allergic reactions, are localized in these areas.
Fungus on the foot manifests itself in the form of peeling and burning skin
The feet may also become itchy due to insect bites. Itching appears against the background of somatic diseases, neuroses, and HIV infection. An unpleasant symptom can occur after drinking alcohol, since drinking alcohol leads to intoxication of the body. Often, feet begin to itch very much after swimming in a pool or swimming in a river, which directly indicates dirty or contaminated water.
Itchy feet during pregnancy
Itching during pregnancy is caused by hormonal changes occurring in the body. Discomfort can be localized in any part of the body, but most often it affects the nipple areolas, feet, palms and abdomen. An equally common cause of itching is swelling that occurs on the legs in the second and third trimester of pregnancy.
Also, do not forget about chronic dermatitis, which worsens during pregnancy. If a woman has any skin diseases, then they can remind themselves through itching, peeling and irritation of the epidermis in different places.
Expectant mothers who take a large number of medications (in particular, vitamin complexes) may develop hepatosis. This disease is localized in the liver area, the disease is also accompanied by itching.
Any liver disorders, as well as increased levels of bilirubin (liver pigment), lead to itching. This is another reason for the appearance of scabies syndrome after drinking alcohol.
During pregnancy, the level of estrogen (female steroid hormones) increases. Because of this, not only the feet, but also other parts of the body may begin to itch. If the estrogen level does not exceed the permissible norm, then there is no need to worry.
Itchy foot in a child
Children's skin is more delicate and susceptible to various infections and bacteria. In infants, itchy feet may occur due to an allergic reaction to skincare products, fabrics, or food. As a rule, discomfort caused by allergies is accompanied by a rash and burning sensation. Itching at night may also indicate scabies. Because of this, the child will sleep poorly, be capricious and fidget.
Children often develop enteroviral infections, the causative agents of which are enteroviruses, as well as the Coxsackie and ECHO viruses. Pathogenic microorganisms from these categories are found in water and food. Viral infection leads to itching, rash, and the development of gastrointestinal diseases.
A child may develop vitamin deficiency due to a lack of useful microelements in the body. Both the lower and upper torso suffer from this. Peeling appears on the arms and legs, the skin becomes dry and painfully pale. Such symptoms most often result from a lack of B vitamins.
Lack of vitamins can cause itching and peeling of a child's feet
Methods for treating itchy feet
What to do if the soles of your feet itch? You definitely need to see a doctor. Self-treatment will not provide a 100% guarantee of recovery, and in some cases it will only make things worse. It is not recommended to take any medications without medical advice. For therapy, you can use ointments and creams, since they do not have a negative effect on the body.
Medications
At the very beginning of treatment, you can use emollient creams. They are suitable for children and adults. Such products do not penetrate into the deeper layers of the skin, but they can relieve itching caused by dermatitis or an allergic reaction. For children, you can use products from the Mustela company. The cheapest option is regular Vaseline, which has a softening and caring effect.
For adults, pharmaceutical creams from the Vishy company (from the Normaderm series) are suitable. These products are the safest and most effective when compared with other pharmacy cosmetics.
Under no circumstances should you use salicylic ointment if your skin is extremely dry. It can only be used for dermatitis and eczema. To get rid of itching, it is better to use zinc ointment (it is allowed even for pregnant women).
Medications that can relieve itching:
- Boromenthol. An ointment containing menthol, boric acid and petroleum jelly. Has a calming, analgesic and antiseptic effect. The product should be applied to the feet in a thin layer 1-2 times a day. The ointment quickly relieves itching and softens the skin. Cost of the drug: within 100 rubles.
- Oxycort. The medication should not be used by pregnant and lactating women. The drug contains oxytetracycline, petrolatum and hydrocortisone acetate. The ointment is used to treat various dermatitis and pruritus. It helps get rid of burns and frostbite. The product should be used up to 3 times a day. Apply a thin layer to the affected areas. The course of treatment for children should not last longer than 7 days. The cost of the ointment (for 10 grams) is 250-300 rubles.
- Iricar. The drug has an anti-inflammatory and antipruritic effect. This remedy can be used to treat children. It should be applied in a thin layer 3 times a day. Severe itching should go away after 1 day of use. The ointment contains tropical liana extract and lanolin. Cost of the drug: about 1000 rubles.
Boromenthol ointment eliminates itching and moisturizes the skin
Before using each product, it is necessary to test for an allergic reaction. To do this, a small amount of the drug should be applied to any area of the skin and left for several hours.
Folk remedies
You can get rid of itching by using readily available and cheap ingredients. Folk remedies are not suitable for the treatment of serious diseases, since their effect is superficial and is aimed only at relieving discomfort.
Baby cream and essential oils
It is best to buy baby cream with chamomile extract. This medicinal plant is known for its calming and anti-inflammatory effects. Instead of cream, you can use Vaseline, but you will need to melt it first. The following oils should be used for this recipe:
- tea tree;
- jojoba;
- menthol (or mint).
Tea tree oil helps relieve itching
You will need to add 2 drops of each oil to the base (cream or Vaseline). The resulting product should be smeared on the heels 2-3 times a day.
Essential oils can be used separately, as they work well against itching. To do this, apply the product to a cotton pad and wipe the affected area. It is worth considering that oils greatly dry out the skin.
Soothing baths
To make a soothing bath, you can use sea salt, chamomile or lavender infusion. An important rule: the water should not be hot. For 10 liters of water you will need 100 ml of medicinal decoction or 100 grams of sea salt. It would be much more economical to make one basin. In principle, if your feet do not itch too much, even a cold shower will help.
Sea salt is suitable for preparing soothing baths.
Alcohol solution
An excellent remedy to help relieve itching from insect bites. For 100 ml of water you will need 20-30 ml of alcohol. The finished product should be applied locally using a cotton swab, as it can cause peeling of the skin.
Baking soda is also very good for itching. One glass of soda should be added to the bath or basin. The water should be warm (ideally cool). You will need to immerse your feet in the resulting solution for 30-40 minutes.
A baking soda bath helps relieve itching.
The soles of your feet may itch due to vitamin deficiency or poor nutrition. Therefore, if itching occurs, you need to reconsider your diet. Especially if all kinds of medications do not have a positive effect.
To begin with, you should give up alcoholic drinks and excessively fatty foods. You should reduce your consumption of citrus fruits and sweets. It is also recommended to add more foods containing vitamin B to your diet (tomatoes, nuts, cereals, beef). For the best effect, you need to give up caffeine.
If your feet feel itchy, stop drinking coffee.
Prevention
Many reasons can cause irritation of the skin around the feet. Despite this, everyone can protect themselves from itching.
Main rules of prevention:
- do not wear someone else's shoes;
- do not abuse alcoholic beverages;
- refuse narrow shoes that squeeze your feet;
- get rid of shoes made of synthetic materials;
- do not use expired, low-quality foot creams;
- do not swim in dirty water;
- Avoid close contact with people who show symptoms of scabies or fungus.
To avoid irritation on your feet, avoid wearing uncomfortable shoes.
These rules will help protect yourself from the most common diseases that cause itchy feet.
It is also worth understanding that scabies syndrome can occur against the background of stress and neuroses. If itching appears constantly and for no apparent reason, then you should take sedative tablets or decoctions.
Itching is a medical term for an unpleasant, irritating urge to scratch. Most often, the soles of the feet itch due to excessive sweating, which occurs when wearing certain shoes. It can also sometimes be a symptom of liver problems or some other serious internal diseases.
Itchy soles are usually not a serious cause for concern, although they can sometimes indicate the presence of a chronic condition. To exclude this, you need to pay attention to the accompanying symptoms and the nature of the itching itself.
Superstitions
Various kinds of superstitions have developed over the centuries in different nations. If the right foot itches, then this is good and indicates an upcoming successful journey or return; if the left foot, then on the contrary, means failure on the road or when returning home.
Here are some of the superstitions that explain why one or both soles itch:
- the soles are itchy - you will go on a long journey;
- left foot itches - the trip will end badly;
- your right foot itches - return home;
- the soles are itchy - someone is talking about you;
- the soles of your feet itch - get new shoes that don’t fit;
- itchy feet - one of your relatives will disappear.
Causes of itching from a medical point of view
Itching occurs when the skin is irritated, which may be caused by:
Skin condition and diseases
These include:
Itchy soles of the feet can be caused by environmental factors, allergens, or irritants, such as:
- sunburn;
- cosmetic allergens;
- prickly heat;
- some types of metals, such as cobalt;
- allergy to medicine;
- rubber.
Exposure to external stimuli
Irritating substances are those that cause a response in the body. These may be ointments or medications used to treat other health problems, such as:
- statins;
- drugs or opioids;
- ACE inhibitors;
- morphine sulfate.
Internal diseases of the body
From a medical point of view, increased levels of certain neurotransmitters in the body cause itching. Therefore, your doctor may recommend a medicine that lowers its levels. The reasons for this condition may be:
- thyroid diseases;
- liver diseases;
- kidney disease;
- cholestasis (impaired formation and secretion of bile);
- polycythemia vera (blood disease);
- oncology.
Night itching of soles of feet
Feet may itch at night due to dryness caused by rising air temperatures or due to too frequent and thorough drying. Treatment depends on the causes.
Persistent, irritating itching interferes with sleep and distracts you from everyday activities, in addition, it can lead to severe scratching of the skin. This is a signal that something is wrong with your health, but before you start treatment, you need to establish the cause.
Itching of soles of feet, palms and arms
The simultaneous itching of the feet and palms can be very annoying. Constant itching can cause a lot of inconvenience in everyday life and can also cause scratching of the skin. It can be caused by both drugs and skin diseases:
- increased skin dryness;
- stress;
- medicines;
- Juvenile palmoplantar dermatosis (“sweaty sock syndrome”) is a condition in which the skin becomes scaly and red on the soles of the feet of children and young adolescents, with no known cause;
- contact dermatitis;
- fungus;
- psoriasis.
Itchy feet during pregnancy
Increased blood flow to the feet is the main cause of itchy feet and soles during pregnancy. If the itching is minor, there is no cause for concern, but if it is severe, this may be a symptom of obstetric cholestasis (liver damage).
Obstetric cholestasis (intrahepatic or cholestasis of pregnancy) occurs in 1% of pregnant women and requires urgent medical attention. It usually appears in the twenty-eighth week of pregnancy.
Some pregnant women develop a severe rash after itching occurs over time. Often your feet begin to itch more severely in the evening. Additional symptoms of liver problems:
- pale light stools;
- dark urine;
- jaundice.
Itching of soles without rash
If the soles of the feet itch, but there are no skin rashes, then this may be a symptom of liver disease, while the soles of the feet and palms itch more often. At night the itching intensifies. An ultrasound of the liver may be required to establish an accurate diagnosis.
Treatment and relief of itchy soles of feet
Treatment depends on the causes; if it is an allergic reaction, then it is necessary to exclude provoking foods from the diet. To help relieve itching:
- prescription medications such as tricyclic antidepressants, gabapentin, or SSRIs;
- H1-histamine receptor blocking antihistamines such as Benadryl. It is important to remember that antihistamines have side effects and are not recommended for older people;
- local sedatives, in the form of ointments;
- antifungal creams and sprays.
Prevention
Preventive measures can help you avoid many of the causes of itchy feet, such as fungal infections. To do this, it is important not to walk barefoot in gyms, swimming pools and showers, and also:
- dry and air shoes;
- do not wear socks and shoes on wet feet;
- wear cotton socks;
- Wash your feet regularly with mild soap, paying attention to the areas between the toes.
Home remedies for foot care
- Tea tree oil - has antibacterial properties. Take warm baths by adding forty drops of this oil to the water or apply a few drops to the dry soles of your feet.
- Himalayan crystal salt and apple cider vinegar– this combination creates an acidic environment that destroys various types of bacteria and fungi. Take a warm bath with these ingredients for seven minutes.
- Baking soda. Every day, pour a little baking soda into your socks and shoes, it will absorb all the excess moisture. But this is more of a preventative measure rather than a curative one.
Severe itching in the feet is a very unpleasant symptom that can ruin the life of anyone. If you encounter such a problem, you first need to find out why your feet and soles are itching, and then determine an effective course of treatment.
There are many reasons why itchy feet occur. These include fungal infections, insect bites, allergies, burns and much more. Moreover, one of the main causes of itching on the feet is mycosis, that is, a fungus. It can be infected in different conditions, but it is not easy to cure.
- Infections that cause itching on the soles of the feet
- Treatment methods
- What measures can you take at home?
- How to prevent the disease?
Infectious lesions
Mycoses of the foot
As already mentioned, the most common cause of itching of the lower extremities is mycosis. The exact type of fungal infection can only be identified by a dermatologist. Based on laboratory tests, the doctor can make an accurate diagnosis of whether it is a fungus or another disease.
Along with itching, burning, pain and even an unpleasant odor may appear on the feet. Infected areas of the skin become wet and cracks form on the soles. The lesion also spreads to the heels and areas between the toes. Pathogenic microbes develop on the affected skin, complicating the treatment process.
Factors that can contribute to the appearance of fungal infections include:
- wearing cheap synthetic socks;
- tight shoes made of low-quality materials;
- excessive sweating;
- poor personal hygiene.
You can get a fungal infection in a public locker room, in the shower, or even while walking barefoot on the grass or sand at the beach. People with weakened immune systems and diabetics are more susceptible to mycoses, which cause itchy feet, especially at night.
When your feet are very itchy, this sometimes indicates a scabies mite. Tiny nodular lesions and rashes appear on the skin. You can become infected through contact with a sick person or through sharing common household items.
On the soles of the feet, itching may occur simultaneously with the appearance of a rough growth. The so-called papilloma virus under certain conditions (high humidity levels, poor hygiene, weakened immune defenses) leads to the formation of warts on the feet. At first, the feet only itch, but then severe pain occurs.
Allergic causes
There is also allergic itching of the feet, which has various causes. It is accompanied by swelling, redness and rash. The situation is aggravated by household chemicals, low-quality cosmetics, synthetic clothing and even pet hair.
If your feet itch due to an allergy, you need to determine what exactly is causing the reaction. By limiting contact with allergens and taking antihistamines, you will get rid of itching.
Other reasons
When the foot itches in one place, there are other reasons besides those listed above. For example, sometimes it’s a matter of poor circulation. Varicose veins and swelling can lead to itching, burning and a tingling sensation.
In rare cases, the skin on the feet becomes itchy due to hormonal imbalances. This happens during pregnancy, during menopause and against the background of endocrine diseases. Sometimes itching occurs due to problems with the liver.
Ways to treat itchy feet
There is no one specific method that will help every case of itchy feet. It all depends on the root cause and individual characteristics of the body. First, consult a doctor so that he can identify why your feet are itching.
It is necessary to fight not the symptoms, but the root causes of the disorder. Otherwise, the soles will soon begin to itch again. If itching is caused by insect bites, you can relieve the discomfort with essential oils. They neutralize poisons and create bactericidal, antiseptic and anti-inflammatory effects. Due to this, the burning goes away. You can eliminate itching with different solutions by wiping the bitten areas with them. This could be boric alcohol or vinegar.
In certain cases, doctors prescribe pharmaceuticals for itching on the feet. If the cause is scabies mites, it is important to start fighting them in a timely manner to avoid the purulent stage of the disease. You should not treat such itching on your own, since you can buy medications to combat mites, but they will not destroy the eggs.
When your feet itch due to an allergy, a specialist will send you for tests to determine the allergen. After this, effective therapy will be selected. Tablets and ointments will be useless until the irritant is removed.
When itching is caused by vascular diseases, treatment should be comprehensive, including:
- laser and magnetic therapy;
- taking medications to tone veins;
- physiotherapeutic procedures;
- electropuncture stimulation.
In the case of itching due to varicose veins, it is important to reduce the load on the legs and start using special compression hosiery, and when resting, place a cushion under the legs.
When your feet and limbs itch due to mycosis, do not self-medicate. Only a dermatologist can determine effective ointments for foot fungus.
In addition to all of the above, you need to pay attention to shoes and socks, changing them to more comfortable ones if necessary, and also spend more time on personal hygiene using good body care products.
How to quickly relieve itching at home?
Regardless of the reason why your feet itch, you can try to relieve the symptoms of itching on your own before you see a doctor. Please note that all the remedies described below do not remove the real cause, but only temporarily make you feel better:
- Exposure to cold tightens the pores on the skin and relieves irritation, as a result of which the receptors are dulled. Under the influence of cold, blood flow slows down and histamine, which causes itching, stops being produced.
- Heat exposure can also help in certain cases. It opens the pores, causing the epidermis to relax and tension to go away. The activity of histamine is stimulated, and it stops accumulating and the itching subsides.
- Baking soda can quickly relieve symptoms of itchy feet. You need to make soda baths and then let your feet dry without rinsing them. If it is not possible to take a bath, apply a little soaked soda to a cotton pad and wipe the itchy areas with it.
- Sea salt against itchy feet is used in the form of baths: per liter of water you need 50 g of pure salt. You need to take these foot baths for a maximum of ten minutes.
- Honey with propolis also relieves itchy feet. They are especially effective for thermal damage to the epidermis.
Preventive measures
If you have gotten rid of your symptoms and the soles of your feet no longer itch, or you want to know how to prevent this disorder, you need to take care of your personal hygiene. All funds must be individual (this applies to all family members). When visiting public baths or saunas, be sure to wear your own replacement shoes. This way you will avoid infection with fungus and other skin diseases.
Do not wear other people's socks or shoes, and wash your own regularly. Sweat and humidity are the best conditions for the development of pathogenic bacteria that cause itching on the feet. If you do a pedicure in a salon, make sure that the instruments used are sterile. These are the main recommendations for preventing itchy skin on the feet. Remember them and stay healthy!
Why do my feet itch at night and what are the causes of itchy skin near the heel? Although a wide variety of dermatological conditions can cause itchy skin at night, it most often occurs due to dry skin.
Xerosis is the most common condition in winter, when there is little moisture in the air. This condition is not serious and can be treated with moisturizers.
If the skin itching at night is chronic or accompanied by a rash, inflammation or scales, another medical condition may be the cause.
Revitalizing and moisturizing products for dry and cracked skin. Description of the product. Recommendations for use. Customer reviews. Read more >>
Why do my feet itch - reasons
Infections, kidney disease, hormonal conditions, and some types of cancer can cause itchy skin. A thorough physical examination and special blood tests can help determine the cause of the problem. Treatment in this case can be prescribed by a dermatologist who specializes in skin diseases.
Allergic dermatitis
Allergic dermatitis ( contact dermatitis) occurs when a person comes into contact with irritating lotions, soaps, chemicals, plants, or even jewelry. Itchy skin at night can be very unpleasant.
Washing powder or bleach used to wash or wash bed linen can also be a source of irritation. It is possible that a person may suddenly develop an allergy to certain chemicals, even if they have used them many times in the past.
Cosmetic products or plants (eg ivy) can cause allergies.
Bed bugs and fleas
Bed bugs are small, blood-feeding insects that can appear in homes, dorms, or hotels. Mattresses are a favorite hiding place for bed bugs and their eggs. At night, insects bite and feed on the blood of their hosts.
Even clean, immaculate homes can become infested with bedbugs, as these tiny insects move freely through walls and pipes. According to the Harvard School of Public Health, bedbugs leave behind skin lesions similar to mosquito bites.
Fleas can also be the culprit behind itchy feet. Most often they live in carpets, on the floor of your home. Red bumps, hives and severe itching may appear once you become sensitive to flea bites. If other family members and pets have itching and scratching, you should consider fleas as a possible culprit.
Chronic diseases
Up to 50 percent of older adults have itchy skin at night. This may be caused by a serious chronic disease such as Hodgkin's lymphoma, chronic liver disease, or kidney failure. 30% of patients with Hodgkin lymphoma reported severe and chronic skin itching.
About 25 percent of patients with chronic kidney failure have itchy skin. People with a poorly functioning liver may also experience itchy skin at night due to the accumulation of bile acids on the surface of the skin.
Itchy skin on the bottom of your legs can be close to torture. There are quite a few possible reasons. Your dermatologist can help rule out many of them.
The Handbook of Clinical Dermatology describes several conditions that can occur in the lower legs and cause itching.
Xerosis
Xerosis is one of the most common conditions that is associated with dry skin. Xerosis often affects the lower part of the legs. It most often occurs in older people when the skin becomes drier.
You won't see signs of dry skin, but you can definitely feel it. You may experience red spots, cracks, and irritation from scratching.
You may also notice that itching from xerosis is more common in the winter, when the heating in your home makes the air dry. Your situation worsens when you take a hot bath. Itching may not only be on the lower part of the legs. The hands may also be affected. Usually the area that itches is scratched until it hurts. It's almost impossible to resist scratching the affected area, although it only makes it worse.
Autoimmune diseases and cancer
Sjögren's autoimmune disease syndrome can lead to dry skin on the lower legs. The main problems associated with this disorder are dry eyes and dry mouth. According to the Mayo Clinic, Sjögren's syndrome attacks your own exocrine glands. These glands are responsible for lubrication of the skin, as well as the production of tears and saliva.
Itchy skin sometimes may be a symptom of cancer . Cancers of the vocal cords, breast, ovaries and gastrointestinal tract have all been associated with itching. Itching is most often caused by leukemia and other types of blood cell cancer. In fact, itching may be the first symptom of Hodgkin lymphoma. This type of cancer affects blood cells called lymphocytes.
Autoimmune disorders cause the immune system to attack a person's own organs. These disorders can lead to a range of symptoms, including itching. Lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and Sjögren's syndrome are also autoimmune diseases commonly associated with itchy skin.
Skin diseases
A number of skin diseases can cause itching. For example, eczema accompanied by intense itching and red, flaky skin. Dry skin and psoriah - skin diseases leading to red, scaly patches.
Allergic dermatitis causes itching when the skin comes into contact with a specific irritant, such as detergents, soaps, cosmetic products or plants. An allergic reaction to certain foods or medications can also cause your skin to itch.
Disinfectant ointment for the treatment of eczema, psoriasis, hemorrhoids and burns. Description of the product. Recommendations for use. Customer reviews. Read more >>
Infectious disease
Many of the infections most common in childhood, including measles, rubella and chickenpox, can cause itchy skin. All of these conditions are caused by viral illnesses and usually begin with flu-like symptoms accompanied by an itchy rash.
Human immunodeficiency virus, or HIV, is another viral infection associated with itching. HIV infection can lead to itchy skin conditions such as eczema. In some cases, itching may occur in people with HIV without a rash.
Itchy feet are often accompanied by burning, peeling and redness of the skin. If such symptoms occur systematically, then you should not postpone going to the doctor. The most common cause of itching is a fungus (mycosis). But this is far from the only pathology that can cause discomfort in the foot area.
Itchy feet may indicate a fungus
Why do my feet itch?
Itching can act as a symptom and indicate the presence of hidden diseases. A person may have itchy palms and feet, fingers, knees, face, and groin area. Many infectious and fungal diseases, as well as allergic reactions, are localized in these areas.
Fungus on the foot manifests itself in the form of peeling and burning skin
The feet may also become itchy due to insect bites. Itching appears against the background of somatic diseases, neuroses, and HIV infection. An unpleasant symptom can occur after drinking alcohol, since drinking alcohol leads to intoxication of the body. Often, feet begin to itch very much after swimming in a pool or swimming in a river, which directly indicates dirty or contaminated water.
Itchy feet during pregnancy
Itching during pregnancy is caused by hormonal changes occurring in the body. Discomfort can be localized in any part of the body, but most often it affects the nipple areolas, feet, palms and abdomen. An equally common cause of itching is swelling that occurs on the legs in the second and third trimester of pregnancy.
Also, do not forget about chronic dermatitis, which worsens during pregnancy. If a woman has any skin diseases, then they can remind themselves through itching, peeling and irritation of the epidermis in different places.
Expectant mothers who take a large number of medications (in particular, vitamin complexes) may develop hepatosis. This disease is localized in the liver area, the disease is also accompanied by itching.
Any liver disorders, as well as increased levels of bilirubin (liver pigment), lead to itching. This is another reason for the appearance of scabies syndrome after drinking alcohol.
During pregnancy, the level of estrogen (female steroid hormones) increases. Because of this, not only the feet, but also other parts of the body may begin to itch. If the estrogen level does not exceed the permissible norm, then there is no need to worry.
Children's skin is more delicate and susceptible to various infections and bacteria. In infants, itchy feet may occur due to an allergic reaction to skincare products, fabrics, or food. As a rule, discomfort caused by allergies is accompanied by a rash and burning sensation. Itching at night may also indicate scabies. Because of this, the child will sleep poorly, be capricious and fidget.
Children often develop enteroviral infections, the causative agents of which are enteroviruses, as well as the Coxsackie and ECHO viruses. Pathogenic microorganisms from these categories are found in water and food. Viral infection leads to itching, rash, and the development of gastrointestinal diseases.
A child may develop vitamin deficiency due to a lack of useful microelements in the body. Both the lower and upper torso suffer from this. Peeling appears on the arms and legs, the skin becomes dry and painfully pale. Such symptoms most often result from a lack of B vitamins.
Lack of vitamins can cause itching and peeling of a child's feet
Methods for treating itchy feet
What to do if the soles of your feet itch? You definitely need to see a doctor. Self-treatment will not provide a 100% guarantee of recovery, and in some cases it will only make things worse. It is not recommended to take any medications without medical advice. For therapy, you can use ointments and creams, since they do not have a negative effect on the body.
Medications
At the very beginning of treatment, you can use emollient creams. They are suitable for children and adults. Such products do not penetrate into the deeper layers of the skin, but they can relieve itching caused by dermatitis or an allergic reaction. For children, you can use products from the Mustela company. The cheapest option is regular Vaseline, which has a softening and caring effect.
For adults, pharmaceutical creams from the Vishy company (from the Normaderm series) are suitable. These products are the safest and most effective when compared with other pharmacy cosmetics.
Under no circumstances should you use salicylic ointment if your skin is extremely dry. It can only be used for dermatitis and eczema. To get rid of itching, it is better to use zinc ointment (it is allowed even for pregnant women).
Even a “neglected” fungus can be cured at home. Just remember to apply once a day.
Medications that can relieve itching:
- Boromenthol. An ointment containing menthol, boric acid and petroleum jelly. Has a calming, analgesic and antiseptic effect. The product should be applied to the feet in a thin layer 1-2 times a day. The ointment quickly relieves itching and softens the skin. Cost of the drug: within 100 rubles.
- Oxycort. The medication should not be used by pregnant and lactating women. The drug contains oxytetracycline, petrolatum and hydrocortisone acetate. The ointment is used to treat various dermatitis and pruritus. It helps get rid of burns and frostbite. The product should be used up to 3 times a day. Apply a thin layer to the affected areas. The course of treatment for children should not last longer than 7 days. The cost of the ointment (for 10 grams) is 250-300 rubles.
- Iricar. The drug has an anti-inflammatory and antipruritic effect. This remedy can be used to treat children. It should be applied in a thin layer 3 times a day. Severe itching should go away after 1 day of use. The ointment contains tropical liana extract and lanolin. Cost of the drug: about 1000 rubles.
- do not wear someone else's shoes;
- do not abuse alcoholic beverages;
- refuse narrow shoes that squeeze your feet;
- get rid of shoes made of synthetic materials;
- do not use expired, low-quality foot creams;
- do not swim in dirty water;
- Avoid close contact with people who show symptoms of scabies or fungus.
- Allergy. In this case, the itching is localized not only on the feet, it spreads to the ears and palms. The causes of an allergic reaction can be very different - from eating some exotic fruit to taking a drug. To find out the cause, you should definitely consult an allergist, and to relieve symptoms, you should take antihistamines.
- Scabies. With this disease, a mite penetrates the skin and infects the skin. This infectious disease very often causes itching of the feet and palms, as well as in the places between the toes. The soles of the feet itch the most at night, because at this time mites, of which there can be several dozen on a person’s skin, begin to lay eggs and make burrows. Scabies is characterized by redness of the skin - these are traces of scabies. If you feel itching on your heels, stomach, elbows, or arms, consult a doctor immediately. This disease is very contagious! If one family member is sick, he must be isolated. The incubation period of the disease is 14 days. It is important to promptly consult a doctor so that the disease does not progress to a more serious purulent stage. Also, please note that the cause of illness is a disorder in the body, which can be caused by malnutrition and poor hygiene.
- Foot fungus. Fungal infection is the most common cause of itchy heels. However, in the first stages the disease is not accompanied by itching. At first, the toenail may simply darken, then it may move slightly away from the skin. If the fungus is not treated at this stage, it can affect the entire surface of the foot. In this case, the heel begins to crack, itching appears, and the entire foot becomes covered with cracks. At the same time, the fungus is a contagious disease and, if a person is not treated, he will infect everyone in his household with it. To get rid of fungus, just contact a dermatologist and follow all his recommendations. Most likely, you will be prescribed tablets and cream for external use. Additionally, the doctor will recommend taking baths to relieve itching and remove cracks. To treat fungus, special varnishes are also used, which are aimed at eliminating the disease on the nail plate.
- Don't wear other people's shoes. If you already had to buy something at a second-hand store, take the shoes to a special workshop where there is an antibacterial lamp so that they can be slightly disinfected.
- In the evening, be sure to wash your feet in cool water and use nourishing cream.
- Massage your feet with essential oils at least twice a week.
- Once a week, give your feet a sea salt bath.
- Get a pedicure with foot scrubs once a month.
- Wear quality shoes that have ventilation.
- You should not use someone else’s shoes or personal hygiene products.
- If you injure your foot, you must treat it immediately.
- If your feet sweat a lot, then you should use products that reduce unpleasant odors and reduce sweating (algel, formidron and others).
- Treat your heels with pumice several times a week; if the skin is not rough, then once is enough.
- Don’t be lazy before going to bed, wash your feet and wipe them dry.
- maintain personal hygiene;
- do not use other people's things and shoes;
- wear high-quality shoes that can “breathe”;
- for very sweaty feet, use a remedy for excessive sweating: formidron; algel; formagel;
- treat wounded skin of the feet with any antiseptic: Betadine, Chlorhexidine, Fukortsin;
- do not wear tight shoes that impair blood circulation;
- treat keratinized skin on the heels with pumice several times a week;
- Be sure to wash your feet before going to bed and dry them well (especially between the toes).
- Insect bite.
- If there is severe itching and redness on the foot, this may indicate an insect bite. The bite site swells and itches terribly.
- Scabies. Presence of scabies mite.
Boromenthol ointment eliminates itching and moisturizes the skin
You can get rid of itching by using readily available and cheap ingredients. Folk remedies are not suitable for the treatment of serious diseases, since their effect is superficial and is aimed only at relieving discomfort.
Baby cream and essential oils
It is best to buy baby cream with chamomile extract. This medicinal plant is known for its calming and anti-inflammatory effects. Instead of cream, you can use Vaseline, but you will need to melt it first. The following oils should be used for this recipe:
Tea tree oil helps relieve itching
You will need to add 2 drops of each oil to the base (cream or Vaseline). The resulting product should be smeared on the heels 2-3 times a day.
Essential oils can be used separately, as they work well against itching. To do this, apply the product to a cotton pad and wipe the affected area. It is worth considering that oils greatly dry out the skin.
To make a soothing bath, you can use sea salt, chamomile or lavender infusion. An important rule: the water should not be hot. For 10 liters of water you will need 100 ml of medicinal decoction or 100 grams of sea salt. It would be much more economical to make one basin. In principle, if your feet do not itch too much, even a cold shower will help.
Sea salt is suitable for preparing soothing baths.
An excellent remedy to help relieve itching from insect bites. For 100 ml of water you will need 20-30 ml of alcohol. The finished product should be applied locally using a cotton swab, as it can cause peeling of the skin.
A baking soda bath helps relieve itching.
The soles of your feet may itch due to vitamin deficiency or poor nutrition. Therefore, if itching occurs, you need to reconsider your diet. Especially if all kinds of medications do not have a positive effect.
To begin with, you should give up alcoholic drinks and excessively fatty foods. You should reduce your consumption of citrus fruits and sweets. It is also recommended to add more foods containing vitamin B to your diet (tomatoes, nuts, cereals, beef). For the best effect, you need to give up caffeine.
If your feet feel itchy, stop drinking coffee.
Many reasons can cause irritation of the skin around the feet. Despite this, everyone can protect themselves from itching.
Main rules of prevention:
To avoid irritation on your feet, avoid wearing uncomfortable shoes.
These rules will help protect yourself from the most common diseases that cause itchy feet.
It is also worth understanding that scabies syndrome can occur against the background of stress and neuroses. If itching appears constantly and for no apparent reason, then you should take sedative tablets or decoctions.
Why do my feet itch at night?
Why do my feet itch at night and what are the causes of itchy skin near the heel? Although a wide variety of dermatological conditions can cause itchy skin at night, it most often occurs due to dry skin.
Xerosis is the most common condition in winter when there is little moisture in the air. This condition is not serious and can be treated with moisturizers.
If the skin itching at night is chronic or accompanied by a rash, inflammation or scales, another medical condition may be the cause.
Why do my feet itch - reasons
Infections, kidney disease, hormonal conditions, and some types of cancer can cause itchy skin. A thorough physical examination and special blood tests can help determine the cause of the problem. Treatment in this case can be prescribed by a dermatologist who specializes in skin diseases.
Allergic dermatitis
Allergic dermatitis (contact dermatitis) occurs when a person comes into contact with irritating lotions, soaps, chemicals, plants or even jewelry. Itchy skin at night can be very unpleasant.
Washing powder or bleach used to wash or wash bed linen can also be a source of irritation. It is possible that a person may suddenly develop an allergy to certain chemicals, even if they have used them many times in the past.
Cosmetic products or plants (eg ivy) can cause allergies.
Bed bugs and fleas
Bed bugs are small, blood-feeding insects that can appear in homes, dorms, or hotels. Mattresses are a favorite hiding place for bed bugs and their eggs. At night, insects bite and feed on the blood of their hosts.
Even clean, immaculate homes can become infested with bedbugs as these tiny insects move freely through walls and pipes. According to the Harvard School of Public Health, bedbugs leave behind skin lesions similar to mosquito bites.
Fleas can also be the culprit behind itchy feet. Most often they live in carpets, on the floor of your home. Red bumps, hives and severe itching may appear once you become sensitive to flea bites. If other family members and pets have itching and scratching, you should consider fleas as a possible culprit.
Chronic diseases
Up to 50 percent of older adults have itchy skin at night. This may be caused by a serious chronic disease such as Hodgkin's lymphoma, chronic liver disease, or kidney failure. 30% of patients with Hodgkin lymphoma reported severe and chronic skin itching.
About 25 percent of patients with chronic kidney failure have itchy skin. People with a poorly functioning liver may also experience itchy skin at night due to the accumulation of bile acids on the surface of the skin.
Itchy skin near the heel
Itchy skin on the bottom of your legs can be close to torture. There are quite a few possible reasons. Your dermatologist can help rule out many of them.
The Handbook of Clinical Dermatology describes several conditions that can occur in the lower legs and cause itching.
Xerosis is one of the most common conditions that is associated with dry skin. Xerosis often affects the lower part of the legs. It most often occurs in older people when the skin becomes drier.
You won't see signs of dry skin, but you can definitely feel it. You may experience red spots, cracks, and irritation from scratching.
You may also notice that itching from xerosis is more common in the winter, when the heating in your home makes the air dry. Your situation worsens when you take a hot bath. Itching may not only be on the lower part of the legs. The hands may also be affected. Usually the area that itches is scratched until it hurts. It's almost impossible to resist scratching the affected area, although it only makes it worse.
Autoimmune diseases and cancer
Sjögren's autoimmune disease syndrome can lead to dry skin on the lower legs. The main problems associated with this disorder are dry eyes and dry mouth. According to the Mayo Clinic, Sjögren's syndrome attacks your own exocrine glands. These glands are responsible for lubrication of the skin, as well as the production of tears and saliva.
Itchy skin can sometimes be a symptom of cancer. Cancers of the vocal cords, breast, ovaries and gastrointestinal tract have all been associated with itching. Itching is most often caused by leukemia and other types of blood cell cancer. In fact, itching may be the first symptom of Hodgkin lymphoma. This type of cancer affects blood cells called lymphocytes.
Autoimmune disorders cause the immune system to attack a person's own organs. These disorders can lead to a range of symptoms, including itching. Lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and Sjögren's syndrome are also autoimmune diseases commonly associated with itchy skin.
A number of skin diseases can cause itching. For example, eczema is accompanied by intense itching and red, flaky skin. Dry skin and psoriasis are skin conditions that result in red, scaly patches.
Allergic dermatitis causes itching when the skin comes into contact with a specific irritant, such as detergents, soaps, cosmetic products or plants. An allergic reaction to certain foods or medications can also cause your skin to itch.
Infectious disease
Many of the infections most common in childhood, including measles, rubella and chickenpox, can cause itchy skin. All of these conditions are caused by viral illnesses and usually begin with flu-like symptoms accompanied by an itchy rash.
Human immunodeficiency virus, or HIV, is another viral infection associated with itching. HIV infection can lead to itchy skin conditions such as eczema. In some cases, itching may occur in people with HIV without a rash.
Since childhood, I have been tormented by itchy feet, but I tried my best to ignore it. And yet: “Are your feet itching?” There are many factors that cause itchy feet.
Many people very often come with the problem: “Itchy feet.” Basically, feet start to itch when the top layer of the leg (foot) is damaged. Itching in the feet can be caused by various reasons, it is worth noting that most are associated with diseases.
If your feet and palms itch at the same time
In particular, the disease will reach not only the feet, but also the stomach and palms. Itchy feet are more common due to an allergic reaction. The next cause of itching of the feet and legs most often occurs in the fairer sex and is associated with vascular diseases. The trouble is that the affected area itches, and through the scratched crack an infection can enter the body and form an intertriginous type of mycosis.
It has been repeatedly said that as soon as persistent and severe itching appears on the feet, you should immediately consult a dermatologist. Only a doctor can prescribe correct and effective treatment. Everyone knows that if it itches a lot, you shouldn’t scratch it; that’s what the disease is counting on. It is very simple to protect yourself and rid yourself of annoying itching in the future; it does not take much time or effort.
If you injure your foot, you must treat it immediately. Take treatment of your feet seriously, firstly, untreated diseases can appear again and again, and secondly, the sick person is a walking carrier of serious fungal diseases.
The appearance of itching on the feet is a very delicate problem. It is worth noting that the most common cause of itching on the feet is a fungal infection, which affects about 40% of the population of our planet. With this disease, “itchy” passages in the form of thin stripes on the skin can be observed on the skin. In some cases, the mite can cause fluid-filled blisters to form on the soles of the feet.
Another fairly common reason why itchy feet is an allergic reaction of the body to an irritant. The appearance of itching on the feet may be associated with damage to the skin. Pregnant women also quite often complain of itching on the soles of their feet. Moreover, such a symptom can be either temporary or permanent.
Try to avoid contact with people who suffer from itchy feet. One day I was faced with a fungal foot infection. My feet were itching terribly. I had to see a doctor. The treatment took a long time, but I finally managed to overcome this problem.
I don’t stand on the floor with my bare feet in public places. For a long time I was looking for the cause and sensible explanation for itchy feet, and finally I found it. Very interesting article, learned a lot. When I went to the doctor at the hospital, he simply wrote out a prescription and sent it to the pharmacy.
As a result, we spent a long time being treated for itchy feet. I searched ten pages and forums, but couldn’t find anything relevant to the case. Itching on the legs and arms can be the result of various skin diseases. Even if you really want to scratch your itchy arms and legs, don't. By doing this, you can only aggravate the symptoms and also provoke the emergence of other problems, for example, the development of infection.
Choose pajamas made from fabrics that won't irritate your skin. Thanks to this, you will not experience itching and discomfort. Make sure your bedroom is comfortable and cool. You may experience itching due to allergens and irritants. If you identify the irritant that in your case can provoke the itching, it will be easier for you to eliminate this unpleasant symptom.
The main thing you need to know in this situation is that you don’t need to make diagnoses and treat yourself. Depending on the disease, the patient may have different symptoms. If scabies is cutaneous, then the patient will have it clearly expressed. The most severe itching begins to appear at night, when the body is calm. The itching can be so severe that it is simply impossible to sleep. For a long time, a person may be bothered by itching, which appeared as a result of mycosis.
In addition, cracks may appear in the infected area. Due to the introduction of infection into the body, treatment can be very delayed, and the consequences can be more serious. Itching can also occur due to stressful situations, severe neuroses, constant irritability, and anxiety.
Luckily, I came across this article, which not only detailed the possible causes of itchy feet, but also gave a list of recommendations on how to deal with this problem. Some time ago, the itching became very annoying and almost constant. These reasons can provoke severe itching in the feet.
Itchy feet, causes, treatment
Reasons why your feet itch
If you have scabies, almost your entire body itches
Why part of the foot itches, namely the heel, the most common reasons may be:
If a person’s heel or the area between the toes itches, this method will no longer be effective.
The heel may itch due to nerves
An insect bite can also cause discomfort and severe itching. The feet often itch due to a banal mosquito bite. Such minor damage can cause a lot of discomfort. Feet are constantly in motion, a mosquito or ant bite can become infected, and this is already a reason to see a doctor. Such damage is especially typical for children who have very delicate skin on their feet. If your kids have itchy feet, be sure to pay attention to it. If the infection is left unattended for 2-3 days, then surgery cannot be avoided.
Often it is not the entire foot that may itch, but specifically the heel. There are options here too. This may be due to the fact that your shoe insole is incorrectly selected and the heel is simply going numb. Another possibility is elevated blood sugar. It’s not for nothing that dermatologists often send patients who complain of itching in the heel area to donate blood for sugar testing. In addition, experts do not rule out that the cause of itchy heels may be stress. Often our body reacts unpredictably to negative emotions and fears. Some people's faces turn red, others have white spots on their necks, and others suffer from itchy heels.
In addition, if you lead a sedentary lifestyle or eat poorly, rarely eat fruits and fresh vegetables, this may also be the reason why your feet itch, as this often happens with vitamin deficiency.
Don't forget about basic hygiene rules.
Even if you don’t have fungus, you need to use softening foot creams and get pedicures regularly. Choose only trusted beauty salons or do this procedure at home, because in these places there is a very high risk of contracting a fungal disease.
Give your feet a spa treatment
Why your feet itch is certainly an important question, but it is much more important to know how to avoid this phenomenon. By following simple rules, you can keep the situation under control:
If you spend time on your feet, take care of their hygiene, and at the same time eat well and exercise to normalize blood circulation, itching and peeling of your feet will not bother you.
Why do my feet itch?
Many people very often come with the problem: “Itchy feet.” Basically, feet start to itch when the top layer of the leg (foot) is damaged. The main thing you need to know in this situation is that you don’t need to make diagnoses and treat yourself. It is unlikely that such amateur activity will do any harm, but the quality of treatment will be much worse. The sooner the patient consults a doctor, the sooner the doctor will be able to determine the causes and prescribe proper treatment.
And yet: “Are your feet itching?” There are many factors that cause itchy feet. Several reasons can be identified. These include: fungal infections, burns, stress or nervous excitement, insect bites, the body's reaction to allergies. These reasons can provoke severe itching in the feet.
Symptoms of itching in the feet
Itching in the feet can be caused by various reasons, it is worth noting that most are associated with diseases. These include: varicose veins, scabies, mycosis of the feet, allergies, stress. Depending on the disease, the patient may have different symptoms.
If scabies is cutaneous, then the patient will have it clearly expressed. In particular, the disease will reach not only the feet, but also the stomach and palms. The most severe itching begins to appear at night, when the body is calm. The itching can be so severe that it is simply impossible to sleep. The cause of severe scabies may be hidden in the scabies mite. Its appearance can be identified by the gray tracks under the skin on the body; these are tick tunnels.
Itchy feet are more common due to an allergic reaction. When scabies is caused by an allergy, the patient may experience itching on the backs of their hands, nose, ears and, of course, feet. In some rare cases, the larynx may swell and nausea with headaches may occur. For complete healing, it will be enough to remove the causative agent of the allergic reaction.
The next cause of itching of the feet and legs most often occurs in the fairer sex and is associated with vascular diseases. In such a situation, the patient’s skin begins to peel, heaviness in the limbs and severe fatigue appear, and the legs also swell. You shouldn’t joke or delay this; take the treatment of this problem seriously: be sure to make an appointment with a doctor for examination. Most likely, he will prescribe treatment for blood vessels, this will relieve the itching and discomfort that it causes.
For a long time, a person may be bothered by itching, which appeared as a result of mycosis. You can catch this infection in public places. For example: saunas, shared showers, swimming pools, as well as through personal hygiene items or items for general use: slippers, socks, towels, washcloths, scissors, tongs. A special characteristic of a fungal disease may be redness of the layer of skin between the fingers, as well as its uncharacteristic thickening. In addition, cracks may appear in the infected area. The trouble is that the affected area itches, and through the scratched crack an infection can enter the body and form an intertriginous type of mycosis. Due to the introduction of infection into the body, treatment can be very delayed, and the consequences can be more serious. The problem is that mycosis that is not completely cured will appear again and again. Because of this, the treatment process can be painstaking, as you need to make sure that the disease is eliminated and does not appear again.
Itching can also occur due to stressful situations, severe neuroses, constant irritability, and anxiety.
It has been repeatedly said that as soon as persistent and severe itching appears on the feet, you should immediately consult a dermatologist. Without a correct diagnosis of the disease, it will be impossible to find its cause and cure it completely. Only a doctor can prescribe correct and effective treatment.
Everyone knows that if it itches a lot, you shouldn’t scratch it; that’s what the disease is counting on. But it is very difficult to resist, so antihistamines such as Erius, Zyrtec, Suprastin, Loratadine, Tavegil and many others can be prescribed for relief. The itching may be so severe that you will want to swallow the entire package of the drug. But do not forget that such drugs can seriously affect the nervous system, slowing it down. If the medicine was prescribed by a doctor, he may warn that driving a car is not advisable after taking the medicine.
As soon as allergic itching begins to appear, it is advisable to use antiallergic drugs; in addition, it is necessary to completely stop contact with allergens.
Varicose veins must be treated with medications that tone the veins and also strengthen their walls. Varicose veins cannot be cured with pills alone. Typically, drugs are prescribed in combination with electropuncture stimulation or magnetic and laser therapy.
Mycosis, in turn, must be treated immediately and in a timely manner with antifungal drugs. If the stage is not the initial one and the skin lesions are significant, then first the top layer of the epidermis is removed using keratolytic substances.
It is very simple to protect yourself and rid yourself of annoying itching in the future; it does not take much time or effort. Just be careful about your health and personal hygiene. For prevention, you must follow the following simple rules.
Don’t forget that itching is not a disease, but a consequence of a disease, so you don’t need to take medications to relieve symptoms, you need to fight the disease directly. Only a dermatologist can correctly diagnose the disease and prescribe the correct treatment. Take treatment of your feet seriously, firstly, untreated diseases can appear again and again, and secondly, the sick person is a walking carrier of serious fungal diseases.
Itchy feet. Ways to get rid of it
Itching on the feet occurs for various reasons. All kinds of diseases can accompany the onset of itching: fungal, infectious, vascular diseases. Sometimes allergic reactions, nervous excitement or involuntary skin damage provoke itching. It is important to identify the cause and try to eliminate it.
Characteristic signs of itchy feet
Itchy feet have various causes and almost all of them are associated with serious diseases. It could be: scabies. allergies, varicose veins, mycosis of the feet, stress. Different ailments exhibit unique symptoms.
With skin scabies, itching is characterized by severe manifestation. Not only the feet itch, but also the palms and the whole stomach. The itching especially intensifies at night, preventing its owner from falling asleep peacefully. Itching is initiated by a subcutaneous scabies mite, which can be identified by special gray tracks on the body (pathogen tracts).
Itching of the feet due to allergies is the most common phenomenon. At the same time, the surfaces of the feet, nose, ears, and backs of the hands itch. Rarely, laryngeal edema, nausea, and headaches occur. To cure this disease, you should eliminate the allergen that creates such unpleasant moments.
Itching of the feet and legs, caused by vascular diseases of the legs, is more common in women. In this case, the legs swell, the skin peels, heaviness in the limbs and fatigue appear. You need to take this problem seriously: you should definitely treat the blood vessels to relieve pain and discomfort.
Itching caused by mycosis can bother a person for a long time. It can become infected in bathhouses, public showers, swimming pools, through common items: washcloths, towels, slippers, socks. Features of a fungal infection can be: thickening and redness of the skin layer between the fingers, cracks in the damaged area. Bacteria can penetrate into scratched areas and, interacting with fungi, form an intertriginous type of mycosis. Fungal disease has serious consequences, and treatment can be lengthy and troublesome. Untreated mycosis can appear again and again. Therefore, it should be treated thoroughly, preventing it from spreading.
In some cases, itchy feet are caused by stressful situations, severe anxiety, irritability and nervousness.
Treatment of itchy feet
If you experience any symptoms that cause severe itching of your feet, you should consult a dermatologist. Treatment must begin with diagnosing the cause. Having identified the cause, the doctor will prescribe adequate treatment.
To alleviate the patient's situation, antihistamines will help relieve severe itching: Suprastin, Erius, Zyrtec, Tavegil, Loratadine and others. It should be borne in mind that some of these drugs slow down the action of the nervous system. Therefore, you should avoid driving a car during treatment.
Scabies that cause itching can be treated, so you need to see a doctor and he will prescribe the necessary therapy.
If allergic itching occurs, antiallergic drugs are used and contact with allergens is completely avoided. Such remedies make it possible to prevent further development and stop an already developed allergic reaction.
Varicose veins are treated with drugs to improve the tone of the veins and strengthen the venous wall. Complex treatment is prescribed: drug therapy, magnetic and laser therapy, electropuncture stimulation.
Mycosis in the early stages requires effective treatment, which is carried out with antifungal drugs. Azole derivatives, allylamines, and morpholines are used as therapeutic agents. In case of significant damage by mycosis, the stratum corneum of the epidermis is first separated using keratolytic substances. In inflammatory cases, desensitizing, antiseptic and anti-inflammatory drugs are used.
To control nervousness and irritability, the patient is prescribed sedatives: Novopassit, valerian, motherwort tincture. lemon balm or mint tea.
Preventing itching
Prevention of diseases accompanied by itching does not require much effort. You need to be more attentive to your health and fulfill the following requirements:
It must be remembered that itching on the feet is a consequence of the disease, and the cause lies in the disease itself. Only a doctor can eliminate the cause and prescribe a remedy. It is worth taking foot problems seriously, as they are fraught with the development of serious exacerbations and infection of people nearby.
Itchy feet: eliminating the causes
If your feet itch, the causes and treatment of the disease should be checked with a doctor. There are a lot of complaints about itching of the feet. But many who encounter unpleasant sensations do not immediately consult a doctor. This often occurs when the feet begin to turn red, burn, and even burst. You should not hesitate when such symptoms appear, just as you should not self-medicate, especially if scabies occurs in a child. Only a specialist can determine exactly why your feet itch and prescribe the right treatment.
Features and reasons for appearance
Depending on the causes of the unpleasant itching, its manifestations vary. Not only the foot can itch, but also the knee or the entire leg, and the itching can be accompanied by flaking of the skin and swelling of the legs. The disease that can cause these symptoms lies much deeper, not in the foot itself. Scabies can be caused by stress or vascular disease. If your feet are very itchy and there is nausea with headaches, then scabies may indicate an allergy.
Factors causing itchy feet
An accurate diagnosis of foot scabies is made by a doctor after carefully examining the skin of the feet and studying the results of the tests performed.
The main causes of scabies on the feet:
If there is a scabies mite, the scratching extends to the palms of the hands and also the stomach. Moreover, the strongest itching is felt at night or during lunchtime sleep, when the body is at rest.
The reactive fertility of itches causes their rapid spread throughout the body. The localization of scabies in a child is more pronounced, since the mites create their channels even in the head of children.
- severe itching, worse at night;
- the appearance of subcutaneous grooves;
- lack of appetite;
- lethargy;
- sleep disturbance;
- irritability;
- skin rash.
- itchy nose;
- itchy back of the hand;
- itching of the foot;
- swelling of the larynx;
- headaches;
- attacks of nausea.
- detergents;
- low-quality household chemicals;
- pesticides in water;
- water contaminated with various factory wastes;
- shoes, socks, tights (in particular, the material from which they are made);
- exotic products;
- medications.
- itching of the legs and feet;
- heaviness in the legs;
- swelling of the legs and fatigue;
- peeling of the skin.
- severe itching;
- redness between fingers;
- the appearance of cracks in the heels;
- thickening of the skin layer between the fingers;
- changing the nail color to a darker one;
- lamination and complete destruction of the nail.
Allergic reaction
If your ears, nose and palms itch together with your feet, then scabies may be caused by an allergy. With such scabies, the following symptoms are distinguished:
Allergens that cause such a reaction can be different substances:
Itchy feet can be caused by severe neuroses, a persistent feeling of excitement, irritation, as well as any stressful situations.
Various vascular diseases, which occur more often in women, also cause an insane desire to scratch the feet. It is extremely rare for the foot to itch with varicose veins, however, the possibility exists.
Therefore, without knowing why your leg itches, you should not immediately turn to traditional methods and use various ointments. You need to pay attention to your entire body.
If you experience such symptoms, you should consult a doctor.
Itching, the root of which is a fungal infection, can lead to serious consequences. A disease caused by a fungus is called mycosis. It is provoked by yeast fungi or tiny molds. The undeniable contagiousness of the disease causes its free transmission through any objects of general use (towels, washcloths, shoes, scissors, etc.). You can catch the fungus in a sauna, swimming pool and other public facilities.
To get rid of the fungus, you should visit a skin and venereal disease clinic. The dermatologist will select the correct internal antifungal drug or ointment. He will also advise what to do and what not to do in order to completely remove mycosis from the body and not encounter it again.
Severe itching of the foot, accompanied by pain, occurs with burns due to renewal of the skin. Itching is also caused by chemical burns, which can be encountered not only when using household chemicals, but also in nature. Burning and pain in such cases are caused by toxins from poisonous plants trapped in tiny cracks in the skin.
Skin damage
When calluses burst, abrasions, cuts and other bruises occur on the foot, the process of skin renewal is activated. New cells are formed in place of dead ones, which gradually exfoliate. After complete restoration of the skin, the itching disappears.
Tight shoes, squeezing blood vessels and rubbing the skin, cause microcracks. The burning sensation in your feet occurs when tiny cracks become inflamed.
Treatment and prevention of itchy feet
It is impossible to solve the problem of burning feet with one method. A visit to the doctor will bring results; this is the only way to find out why your feet itch and how to deal with it.
It is important to get rid of not the symptom, but the root cause of the disease. Otherwise, the soles of your feet will periodically itch again. And ointments in such cases save from scabies only for a while.
Methods for getting rid of foot scabies:
You can get rid of scabies with medications prescribed by your doctor. If scabies mites are found in a child, it is important to immediately consult a doctor before the disease develops into a purulent stage. It is not worth treating this type of scabies yourself, since drugs purchased at pharmacies can only help indirectly. They, for example, will destroy ticks, but not their eggs.
The doctor will prescribe internal medications and ointments that eliminate the external manifestations of the disease.
If foot scabies are an allergic symptom, you should visit a doctor and get tested to identify the allergen. After this, the doctor will prescribe treatment. Ointments and medications will not help if you do not get rid of the irritant. It is necessary to change shoes, bedding, cosmetics or detergents or other things if they turn out to be sources of allergies.
If the root of itching your feet is stress, then it is advisable to avoid stressful situations, take walks in the fresh air more often and have emotional conversations with loved ones.
If itching of the feet is caused by vascular disease, it is necessary to carry out complex treatment:
If you have varicose veins, it is advisable to reduce the load on your legs, wear knitted underwear, and use a foot pad when resting.
It is forbidden to self-medicate when infected with mycosis, and take antifungal drugs strictly as prescribed by a dermatologist.
It is also necessary to strengthen your body by walking barefoot, and you should not step on pebbles and other sharp objects that can harm the skin. After such walks, it is important to wash your feet thoroughly and apply cream to them.
After taking a bath, it is important to disinfect it, including consistently treating the walls and floors in the house. Keep personal belongings separate from the belongings of other family members. Socks should be changed daily and washed immediately after removal.
With burns and other skin injuries, the itching disappears on its own. In this case, you can use any ointment that accelerates the healing process of wounds.
When wearing uncomfortable shoes, you should give preference to higher quality, non-tight models that have ventilation.
If you simply ignore the rules of hygiene, you can get rid of scabies only by starting to follow them.
What needs to be done so that the itching stops and does not occur again:
If children complain of foot scabies, then the cause should be found out and treatment should begin only after consultation with a pediatrician. Pregnant women also often experience itchy feet. In addition, some pregnant women attribute this symptom to toxicosis.
If your leg and foot itches terribly, you should get tested to identify the pathology. Because itching often indicates liver disease. It is important for expectant mothers to take care of their health and not take independent measures to get rid of scabies, since many medications can harm the baby. If itching occurs, consulting a doctor is mandatory for pregnant women.
The origin of the itching can be carefully hidden. Therefore, when your feet begin to itch, you need to find out their causes and the correct treatment by visiting a clinic. Ointments and various tablets often relieve symptoms, but do not cure. And itching is not a disease, but a cry from the body that it is time to pay attention to your health.
The heels of the feet are constantly itching - reasons, what medications to treat
Every person knows how unbearable and unpleasant the itchy sensation in the heels is. But few people understand why this discomfort occurs and whether there are ways to quickly get rid of it.
The main causes of itchy heels
Sometimes patients come to see dermatologists and ask why their heels itch. Even the most experienced specialist will not be able to give an accurate answer without first examining the patient. Before this, the doctor will name only the probable causes of the ailment.
These may include the following factors:
Itchy heels can indicate disorders such as:
Why do my heels itch at night?
It's not uncommon for people to experience severe itching at night. Because of it, they lose normal sleep and become irritable. You should not tolerate such a symptom. It is necessary to begin the fight against discomfort immediately after its appearance.
Feet and heels may suddenly begin to itch at night due to a number of factors:
In fact, doctors do not even try to associate itching of this nature with the time of day, since this factor does not have much influence on it. It’s just that at night the symptom is more pronounced, since the person does not concentrate his attention on anything else, but only tries to sleep.
What medications to treat itching
If your heels or feet are constantly itching, you need to consult a dermatologist about this problem. He will tell you how to treat an unpleasant symptom. But initially, the doctor will ask the patient to undergo a series of diagnostic procedures that will allow him to determine the true cause of the itching.
If its appearance provokes a disease of the internal organs, the patient will go to an appointment with an appropriate specialist. And he will already help a person fight the root cause of discomfort.
The dermatologist may suggest that the patient treat problem areas with topical medications. Creams and ointments are good for heels and feet. They help reduce the severity of discomfort. In addition, these drugs are part of a comprehensive treatment for itching.
In case of infectious skin lesions in the heel area, medications that belong to the groups of multivitamin complexes and broad-spectrum antibiotics will be required. They help increase the protective properties of a weakened body and suppress the activity of the infectious agent.
Self-medication for discomfort in the heels that has been observed for a long time is not the best option.
This way a person can only harm himself and make the situation even worse. Only complex therapy, which is selected based on existing disorders and complaints, will solve the problem. Only a qualified specialist can select it.
The following medications will help cope with the unbearable itching that is felt in the heels and feet:
An antifungal agent that is sold in capsule form. It is intended for oral administration in a dosage of 200 ml daily. Usually the course of treatment takes no more than a week. This period increases if the daily dose of the drug is reduced. This medication should not be taken by pregnant or breastfeeding women, or by patients with heart problems.
This is an ointment that works well against itching. Its active components fight fungal pathogens that live on the skin of the heels. For medicinal purposes, the drug is applied to the problem area in a small layer once a day before going to bed. This ointment is not suitable for people who have been diagnosed with kidney or liver failure. Also, children under 12 years old will have to refuse it.
These are tablets that can be identified by their bright pink color. They contain glibenclamide, which can lower blood sugar levels. The medicine must be taken 1-2 tablets per day. The duration of therapy is determined by a specialist.
A remedy known to many with a calming effect. These brown tablets contain plant extracts of peppermint, lemon balm and valerian. The drug perfectly fights signs of nervousness, disturbed sleep and irritation. Take the tablets several times a day before or after meals. You need to drink them with plenty of water.
A cosmetic product that copes with tired legs. The cream stimulates blood circulation in the desired area, and also makes the skin more firm and elastic. It is used as needed.
This is a vitamin complex that helps compensate for the lack of useful microelements in the body. It is recommended to take it after meals and drink it with a small amount of liquid. To cope with vitamin deficiency, which can lead to itching, it is enough to drink up to 1 tablet per day for a whole month.
The medicine is intended to restore the normal functioning of an organ such as the pancreas. With its help, you can get rid of pain at its location. Capsules should be taken about half an hour before meals for 1-2 months. For children and pregnant women, it is better to choose a safer drug.
Prevention of burning heels
Every person can prevent itching on the feet and heels. To do this, you need to adhere to a number of simple preventive measures, which the dermatologist can tell his patient about at the appointment. The following recommendations will help you cope with this problem:
A sudden desire to scratch is not dangerous, but if scabies is accompanied by itching, bleeding or eczema, it is a reason to consult a specialist. When your legs itch below the knees and pimples appear, this is unpleasant, and the accompanying symptoms that arise indicate the seriousness of the disease. To understand why your legs below the knees itch and what causes discomfort, you should get tested and consult a dermatologist.
In the best case, an insect bite provokes constant scratching of the lower extremities, but if the bloodsuckers definitely did not touch you, then this may be associated with the following symptoms:
- Dry skin. Shaving, hard running water or dry air. The problem lies in improper foot skin care. It is necessary to choose moisturizing lotions or cream soufflés that are suitable individually for you.
- Stress. Often, when nervous, unconscious mechanical movements are made, including scratching the legs. Try to relax, control your actions.
- Frostbite. Signs of the first degree of frostbite may not be noticed - pallor, turning into a red tint when warm, and itching begins.
- Infectious diseases. Even a slight fungus can spread from the area of the feet to the lower extremities, which will bring the desire to scratch, so make it a habit not to wear someone else’s shoes and not to walk barefoot outside the house.
Itching in the cold season
In the absence of any diseases, in winter the skin of the legs itches, flakes and becomes dry. The skin is exposed to cold weather, and the body runs out of vitamins and minerals accumulated over the summer. Therefore, legs itch below the knees more often in winter than in the warm season.
To eliminate discomfort, apply rich and moisturizing creams to saturate the skin with vitamins, use a humidifier and drink more fluids.
Main causes of itching
Let's look at the main causes of itching:
Allergic rash
Appears as a result of eating low-quality foods, inappropriate medications, cosmetics or chemicals. Redness appears on the lower extremities, less often a rash or blisters appear, and you want to scratch. Get tested for allergies by a doctor who will prescribe medications.
Irritation from tights
If you are wondering why your legs itch after wearing tights, then know that this is one of the types of allergies. Perhaps the material from which the underwear is made is not suitable for you. This becomes the reason why women's feet itch, especially in the evening. Scabies turns into a burning sensation, turning into bloody marks. In this case, a visit to the doctor is mandatory.
Itching after shower
More often it spreads to the whole body. The cause may be chlorinated water, hard sponges, or hygiene products. If the soap or shower gel contains alkaline preparations, you are guaranteed dermatitis, and with it burning, redness and blisters. Use natural washing products, thereby you will save yourself from unnecessary problems. 
Hyper- or hypovitaminosis of the body
This is a deficiency or excess of vitamins, minerals and nutrients. My feet are constantly itching and flaking. It is possible to detect the development of the disease only in the clinic.
Skin diseases
The legs are very itchy from the knee to the foot due to skin diseases:
- - the skin becomes inflamed, the legs below the knees itch, and blisters appear. To avoid the chronic nature of the disease, immediately visit a dermatologist.
- - the skin swells, blisters form, then pustules. They are treated with complex therapy prescribed by the doctor.
- Fungus - occurs in the area of the feet, the feet sweat, the nails peel and turn yellow. If you do not delay treatment, then an ointment is prescribed and after a couple of weeks you can forget about the problem.
Varicose veins
The veins in the legs are visible to the naked eye; the outflow of venous blood is disrupted, which leads to unpleasant sensations and a spoiled appearance of the lower extremities. A painful itching develops, turning into bruising.
The more advanced varicose veins are, the more difficult it is for nutrients to reach the limbs. The itching attacks, the veins swell, the legs become bluish and peel. If you develop symptoms, please notify your doctor immediately. Most likely, you were prescribed the wrong treatment. 
Diabetes
Since the body is weakened with diabetes, any wound on the leg will take a very long time to heal, which can lead to burning, loss of elasticity and dry skin. Control the sugar level in the body, cleanse the blood and the problem will disappear.
Pathology of the liver and kidneys
External signs of the disease are rashes on the skin of the legs. At first there may be no desire to scratch, but then the burning sensation increases. Kidney failure in the legs is characterized by dryness, whitening, and itching. With cholelithiasis or cirrhosis, spider veins form, bitterness in the mouth, and malaise are noted.
Itching during pregnancy
The hormonal background of the body changes, the concentration of estrogen reaches maximum levels, the process of excretion of bile, which accumulates in the body, is disrupted, and the skin becomes drier, this will stop the reason why the legs below the knees itch during pregnancy. A burning sensation appears. Sorbents, antispasmodics and similar drugs are used as treatment. In the third trimester, the skin of the legs becomes yellowish, the expectant mother feels her legs itch in the evenings or wakes up from a burning sensation in the middle of the night, which leads to shallow wounds. Treat your feet with antiseptic preparations to eliminate the possibility of infection. Drink more clean water and take baths more often. 
Psychological reasons
Stress or its recent manifestation can cause unpleasant sensations. Actions are performed automatically. With an advanced psychological disorder, a person can scratch his legs until he gets deep scratches without realizing it. Clean air, proper nutrition and timely treatment with sedatives will help restore nerves. At the same time, the problem of scratching your feet will go away.
Cause of itchy feet in children
Stale food or a mosquito bite can trigger the itching process in a child. Hives can cause not only the legs to itch, but also spread throughout the body, dense spots with a red tint appear. Be sure to take your child to the doctor and have your child examined for allergies.
Also, if the parents had eczema on the skin, the child is at risk of getting this disease as a result of genetic predisposition. If a child scratches himself beyond recognition, treatment can last a very long time. Therefore, at the first signs of eczema on the legs and body, consult a dermatologist.
Treatment with physical and psychotherapy
For varicose veins or diabetes, physiotherapy is used. If the skin does not have swelling, and the patient has no contraindications, the following types of physiotherapy are used:
- balneotherapy
- laser irradiation at low frequencies
- electrophoresis
- ultraviolet radiation
- reflexology
Long-term depression or stress can be treated by visiting a psychotherapist. After a few sessions, the burning sensation will subside, but don’t stop there! If you don’t want to come to the doctor in the middle of the course, you risk getting itchy again, so it’s important to finish the treatment.
What can you do at home?
Allergy sufferers or people who do not have the means or opportunity to visit a doctor can resort to home treatment. If unpleasant sensations occur after shaving, think about replacing shaving foam and cream after shaving. You should shave according to hair growth - the risk of irritation is significantly reduced. Salicylic acid (2%) or menthol tincture relieves itching. Diphenhydramine tincture or carbolic acid is also used. Don't forget about a high-quality moisturizing cream with natural ingredients - this is your main home assistant.
Drug treatment: ointments, creams, pharmaceuticals
Traditional methods of treatment
To relieve itching, use the following recipes:
- Mix the roots of valerian, licorice and burdock in equal proportions with violet flowers, elecampane and clasp leaf. Grind and brew 2 tbsp. l. mixtures with 500 ml. water. Insist in a water bath and leave overnight until completely cooled. Take within 3 months.
- Grind the dill seeds, then apply one gram of powder orally.
- Make lotions from boiled burdock root. Cooking takes 30 minutes.
- In 200 ml. add a tablespoon of lemon balm to boiling water and drink 2-3 times a day for 30 days.
- 2 tablets dry or 3 tbsp. l. put liquid juniper extract into the bath. After use, do not rinse.
- Brew 10 grams of marjoram in a glass of boiling water. Use as a compress.
