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A woman's hand holding the heel of her foot: Causes of itchy feet
Health Education

What causes itchy feet? Related conditions and treatments

Environmental triggers and irritants are the most common causes of itchy feet
Mariquissa Beverly, DPM
By | Nov. 14, 2023

It’s normal to have itchy feet now and then, especially if they’re exposed to extreme temperatures, moisture-rich environments, or footwear that puts them in direct contact with allergens or irritants. But itchy feet could be a cause for concern if you constantly have the urge to scratch them or if they keep you awake at night. Pruritus is the medical term for itching sensations of the skin. If you’re experiencing it more often than usual, it could be due to a variety of causes that include your environment and exposure to irritants. Most aren’t life-threatening but could represent a more serious underlying condition.

Key takeaways:

  • It is common to have itchy feet, which may be caused by medical conditions or exposure to different environments, irritants, and microorganisms.
  • Itching typically resolves without treatment, depending on the cause. If the symptoms linger, further evaluation is needed.
  • If treatment is needed, symptoms should improve within weeks.
  • Itchy feet can be managed with natural remedies like oatmeal baths and cold compresses.
  • Use coupons for itchy feet treatments, like Benadryl (diphenhydramine), Lamisil (terbinafine), Neurontin (gabapentin), Tinactin (tolnaftate), and Zyrtec (cetirizine Hcl), to save up to 80%.

What causes itchy feet?

Skin conditions are typically the most common cause of itchy feet. Some of the skin conditions responsible include:

Itchy feet may be a sign of unknown or known medical conditions, such as:

Various environmental or pharmaceutical allergens may also cause itchiness of the feet. Common allergens to be aware of include:

  • Bug bites
  • Medications (topical and oral)
  • Pest infestations (e.g., lice, mites, and scabies)

What causes itchy feet at night?

It is common for feet to itch more during the nighttime or when you’re relaxing. This is called nocturnal pruritus. Like daytime itching of the feet, nocturnal pruritus can result from several causes, including the following:

  • Your body’s circadian rhythm: When it signals to your body that it is time to sleep, it can trigger nighttime skin changes like feelings of warmth. Your body’s circadian rhythm can also lower levels of corticosteroids that would otherwise reduce itching and inflammation.
  • Hormonal changes from menopause or pregnancy: This can also cause skin dryness and itching that’s more noticeable when you’re trying to sleep. 
  • Certain medications: Examples include antibiotics, blood pressure pills, diuretics, and opioids.

Should I be worried about itchy feet?

It is normal for feet to itch on occasion, and it is not a medical emergency. People with a personal or family history of psoriasis, eczema, diabetes, and cancer should discuss their itchy feet with their primary care physician, dermatologist, podiatrist, or nurse practitioner. 

Untreated itchy feet are not known to cause any serious complications. However, if the cause is an infection, it can spread, and other unwanted symptoms may arise. Some infections may cause systemic symptoms (fever), which will require immediate attention from your doctor and should not be ignored.

How is the cause of itchy feet diagnosed?

A licensed healthcare provider or specialist will likely perform a thorough medical exam checking the feet, reviewing current or new medications, and discussing any medical conditions you or your family may have been diagnosed with.

Your healthcare provider may ask if you are using any new detergents, perfumes, or lotions. They may also ask about your work environment, shoe gear, and types of socks worn during the day. Be sure to disclose any recent bug bites, camping trips, or outside activities to rule out underlying conditions.

In some rare occasions, cultures, biopsies, or skin scrapings may be needed to learn what organisms may be growing on the skin to give the appropriate medications. Typically, the physical exam and thorough history are sufficient when diagnosing and treating itchy feet.

Are itchy feet contagious? 

Although there are several causes of itchiness to the feet, itchy feet are rarely contagious. If your itchy feet become contagious, it is usually due to an infection. Bacterial and fungal infections to the feet can spread when using contaminated instruments such as nail nippers, nail files, polishes, and towels. Even allowing someone to borrow your shoes or socks may place you or that person at risk of spreading foot infections.

How long do itchy feet last?

There is no set time frame for how long untreated itchiness to the feet will last. It may last only for a few minutes or last for years if ignored. Once the cause of the problem is identified, this will give a more appropriate guide for how long the itchiness will last. If the cause and appropriate treatment are identified, symptoms should begin to improve within two to four weeks.

Treatment options for itchy feet

The American Academy of Dermatology recommends the following at-home remedies to soothe itchy skin:

  • Apply a cold compress to the skin for 5–10 minutes until the itching goes away.
  • Soak your feet in an oatmeal bath. You can find colloidal oatmeal at stores that sell health and beauty products. 
  • Use a moisturizer that’s free of fragrances and additives.
  • Avoid scratching your feet since this will further irritate the skin and increase your risk of infection. 

If itchiness lasts for more than six weeks, it is considered chronic and more likely to require treatment with over-the-counter (OTC) or prescription medications. Types of medication to treat itchy feet include: 

How to prevent itchy feet

Simple prevention methods such as using lotions or ointments daily may help prevent dry skin that causes foot pruritus. Avoiding walking barefoot, especially outside and in locker rooms, can help reduce contact with bacteria and irritants to the skin. Wearing moisture-wicking or cotton socks and well-ventilated shoe gear to avoid excessive sweating of the feet may also be helpful. Overall, good foot care hygiene with washing and drying feet thoroughly and wearing clean shoes and socks may prevent itchy feet. 

Most importantly, itchy feet are treatable

Itchy feet causes may include dry skin, infections, allergens, or underlying medical conditions. The itchiness may clear on its own without treatment. However, if itching continues, worsens, or is accompanied by blisters, redness, or fever, it could be a sign of infection and require medical management from a healthcare provider. Treatment may include topical antifungal medications or oral prescriptions. Only your healthcare provider can rule out infection or other serious health conditions. 

What’s next? Additional resources for people with itchy feet

Test and diagnostics

Treatments

Scientific studies and clinical trials

More information on related health conditions

 

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