ITCHY skin or pruritus can occur anywhere on the body. However, when it is on the feet it can be particularly irritating, especially when they are covered in hosiery and shoes.

The feet tend to be more vulnerable to pruritus than other parts of the body as they are more likely to be in sweaty situations — we walk barefoot, we get fungal infections between our toes, and our feet are subject to stresses. This means they are prime targets for itching.

While we don’t particularly worry about itching, there may be an underlying condition or disease causing the issue. Itchy feet make you want to scratch and the more you scratch, the more the area itches. This can form a very frustrating cycle.

The skin changes that may accompany the itchy sensation are: blistering, dryness, redness, rashes, scaling, cracking, ulceration, and infection. It is important to note that it is possible for the feet to be itchy with no symptoms at all.

CAUSES

Pruritus caused by disease is related to an increase in the neurotransmitter serotonin. Some of the diseases that may lead to itchy feet are:

Lymphoma: a type of cancer;

Uremia: a raised level of urea in the blood;

Polycythemia vera: a disorder of the bone marrow;

Cholestasis: a liver disease that occurs during pregnancy;

Peripheral neuropathy: nerve disease commonly associated with diabetes;

Skin conditions that cause itchy feet include:

Athlete’s foot (tinea pedis), which is a fungal infection;

Atopic eczema or dermatitis;

Allergic contact dermatitis;

Psoriasis;

Juvenile plantar dermatosis;

Hand foot and mouth disease;

Parasitic infections like hookworm.

Some medication cause the body and feet to itch such as narcotics and opioids.

TREATMENT

A diagnosis must be made regarding the cause of your itching and the condition treated appropriately.

Your doctor may prescribe serotonin inhibitors or antihistamines. Topical anti-itch medication and steroid cream may be indicated.

If you have a fungal infection, antifungal sprays, creams and pills may be recommended. It is important to remember to treat your shoes to prevent re-infection.

In the case of hookworm or other parasites, appropriate medication can be prescribed.

PREVENTION

Maintain good foot hygiene. Wear suitable footwear according to your environment. Flip-flops should be worn in communal areas such as gyms and swimming pools.

If you are prone to fungal infections, wear ventilated shoes. If you work in damp conditions, wear waterproof shoes. Avoid being barefoot outside, especially if it is wet.

Don’t put socks and shoes on unless your feet are completely dry.

If you have dermatitis or eczema, avoid potential allergens that aggravate your condition.

BSc (Hons) DPodM MChS is a podiatrist with offices in Montego Bay (293-7119), Mandeville (962-2100), Ocho Rios (974-6339), and Savanna-la-Mar (955-3154). She is a member of the Health and Care Professions Council in the United Kingdom.