Most people do not take good care of their feet, even though they are often exposed to dirt and pathogens from the outside. This makes the feet susceptible to fungal infections, parasites, and a number of skin problems, according to the health website Healthline (USA).
Fungus is one of the most common causes of itchy feet.
When itchy feet persist, the cause may be due to the following:
Athlete's foot
One of the most common causes of itchy feet is athlete’s foot. Fungal infections often originate from floors, such as toilets, gyms, or swimming pools. Some people also get them from socks or towels.
People who have sweaty feet or wear tight shoes that cause excessive sweating are at high risk of contracting this infection. Experts warn that foot fungus can spread to the nails, causing them to thicken and change color.
The itch of athlete's foot can be very uncomfortable. Several over-the-counter medications can easily treat the condition.
Dry skin
Itchy and painful heels can be caused by dry skin. Dry skin has symptoms quite similar to athlete's foot and eczema, such as itching and flaking. However, the big difference is that itching caused by dry skin can be easily treated with ointments and moisturizers.
Hookworm
Hookworms cause your feet to itch all the time. This condition is more likely to occur in people who often go barefoot. Your feet will also develop itchy rashes and blisters that gradually spread from your feet to your legs. The rash can spread 1.5 to 2 centimeters each day. Antiparasitic creams, when applied to the skin, will effectively kill hookworms.
To prevent hookworm infection, people should wear shoes when going out, especially in places where there is often dog or cat feces. If you have a dog or cat at home, you should deworm them regularly.
Nerve itching sensation
Neuropathic itching is a condition in which the sufferer feels itchy but it is due to an abnormality in the nerves. The itching is not caused by any external factors.
Persistent neuropathic itch in the feet is caused by dysfunction of the nerve cells that sense itch, leading to a false sensation of an itchy stimulus. Most treatments for neuropathic itch use a specific chemical to block the activity of the nerve cells, according to Healthline .
Source link
Comment (0)