There are several people who suffer from the problem of itchy toes or an itchy foot. In most instances, itchy toes & feet are caused by a specific factor and therefore, the problem usually gets resolved within a couple of days or weeks. However, at times, these could be chronic conditions, in which a person suffers from itchy feet and toes for a longer period of time, perhaps even for months. Although an itchy foot and toes are not likely to be serious (unless they get inflamed), they are likely to cause some amount of discomfort and in certain instances, pain too. While there could be several factors that lead to itchy or inflamed toes, the most common reason for such problem is usually an Athlete’s foot.
What is an athlete’s foot?
Like the name suggests, an athlete’s foot is a condition, which is more commonly seen in athletes, such as footballers, basketball players, cricketers, baseball players and any other athlete that wears thick socks, for a long period of time. The kind of shoe can also lead to an athlete’s foot, thereby triggering off the problem of itchy skin on the feet and between the toes. Even though athletes are more prone to this condition as compared to others, it is possible for anybody to suffer from an athlete’s foot, if they wear thick socks and heavy shoes for a long duration. This is because tight shoes and socks draw and trap heat into the foot for a long period of time. However, there are several other factors too, that could lead to itchy red toes.
Itchy Toes Causes
For those people who believe “itchy foot superstition” it means that they are probably on their way somewhere, i.e., they are about to travel. Unfortunately not all instances of itchy feet and itchy toes are a sign of vacations or business trips. In fact, studies indicate that an itchy big toe has nothing to do with a person’s travel plans whatsoever. Almost all the causes of itchy feet and toes have more to do with health problems, than anything else. At times, simple things like excessive sweating could trigger off an itchy toes symptom in a person. However, some of the other possible causes of itchy swollen toes could include:
• Chilblains: This is a condition, in which the body has some trouble in adjusting to react appropriately to cold temperatures, especially, when the weather is changing from warmer climates. Hence, this condition is characterized by itchy toes in winter, accompanied by dryness, swelling and redness. Most people believe that this condition occurs when the body reacts to the cold. However, in truth, this condition is a result of an allergic reaction in the body, towards the cold. When a person suffers from chilblains, dry lesions become visible on the surface of the skin. Some people deal with this condition, by soaking their feet in warm water, to warm up the entire body. However, it is best to consult a doctor for proper treatment, for chilblains.
• Diabetes: Though it is not very common, at times, there could be a correlation between itchy toes and diabetes. Therefore, in case a person feels itchy between toes, it is best to consult a doctor and rule out the possibilities of diabetes.
• Infections: Since people usually wear shoes for at least 6 to 8 hours a day, at a stretch, it is very common to see fungal infections in a person. Moreover, it is difficult for the sweat on the toes to dry up fast, in comparison with the parts of the body.
• Blisters: Another common cause of an itchy feet or toe could be blisters. In most cases itchy toe blisters are formed due to infections and inflammations. However, it is also possible to see blisters on the feet because of allergic reactions or excessive sweating.
How to get rid of itchy feet?
There are several people who actually find it necessary to consult their doctors and seek professional advice on how to get rid of itchy feet. There are others who use home itchy toes cure options, for relief. However, the itchy toes treatment adopted should vary, based on the cause of the problem. Moreover, at time a type of treatment only helps relieve an itchy feet symptom, but does not get rid of the problem. Given below are some of the different ways in which people can deal with itchy toenails, itchy toes and itchy feet:
• The application of ice cubes or an ice pack on the affected part of the toes or feet can help reduce skin irritation, inflammation, swelling and redness. Moreover, ice can help relieve the itchiness caused by blisters too.
• It is important to keep the feet clean and dry at all times, to prevent the chances of a fungal or a bacterial infection. Some doctors also advise patients to use an antifungal or an antibacterial soap as well as some powder, to keep the feet dry and fight off the infections.
• In case of an athlete’s foot, it is important to consult a doctor before using over the counter ointments and medicines, which contain antifungal properties.
• People who wear closed shoes for a long period of time are more prone to sweaty feet, infections, dryness, allergies and itchiness. Therefore, it is best to wear shoes that are open and comfortable, with cotton socks. Stockings and socks that are made out of synthetic material have the tendency to irritate the skin and therefore should be avoided. Moreover, people should never wear damp or wet socks for even a short period of time. Therefore, people who wear socks while playing sports or working out should wear socks that absorb the sweat and keep the feet dry.
• Some people use rubbing alcohol on their toes, to keep the skin clean. However, it does not suit all people and therefore, should be used very carefully. At times, the use of alcohol could cause the skin to break out into a rash.
All instances of itchy toes and feet should be checked by a doctor.
Advice on itchy toes: what are the signs, symptoms, causes and treatment of itchy toes?
If you are suffering from itchy toes, there could be a number of reasons for this problem. The commonest of them all is, excessive sweating and subsequent ignoring of this excess. If you tend to keep your feet in socks and shoes all day, then it is possible that you may be suffering from this irritation. You would need to switch over to cotton socks from nylon ones, as these are better at absorbing sweat. They will also allow passage of air, as cotton has that quality. This will help to keep your feet relatively dry as well. You should also start using talcum powder on your feet to keep them dry. This is also an excellent way to absorb sweat and make sure that you are not stuck with irritated and itchy skin. Another reason why you could be suffering from itchy toes could be due to wearing leather shoes. Many people are actually allergic to leather and most of the time they do not even realize it. Avoid wearing leather shoes for a while to see if this is the case. Actually, if it is possible, you should try to wear open toed shoes or sling backs, or even flip flops. Anything which will help to keep your feet dry and free of collecting moisture and sweat should be good for you.
Make it a point to wash your feet at least twice a day. Use a mild and gentle soap. This will ensure that your skin does not react to anything present in the soap. Because if your feet are already itchy, there is no point in irritating them further by subjecting them to harsh or complicated chemicals. You should also try to see your family physician and rule out the possibility of Athletes Foot or any other bacterial or fungal topical infection. Only a doctor can actually examine your physically and decide whether or not you need such treatment. You can rinse out your feet with a mixture of equal parts of water, lime juice and hydrogen peroxide. This should easily kill any topical infection quite easily. Just make sure you rinse this off properly too, or else this could complicate your problems. Depending upon your age and general health, you should also try to eliminate the possibilities of being a diabetes patient. This is not common, but there could be a connection between foot problems and diabetes.
