What causes itching on the top of the foot?
Sep 07, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Wenmin
Introduction
Diabetes triggered by genetic factors, diet, and other causes may damage nerves, leading to sensory abnormalities and itchy feet, as well as symptoms such as numbness and tingling in the hands and feet, and muscle weakness. Doctors generally recommend prioritizing blood glucose control and using medications such as metformin hydrochloride tablets, gliclazide sustained-release tablets, and repaglinide tablets to alleviate symptoms of high blood sugar.
Generally, itching on the top of the foot may be caused by external irritation, dry skin, athlete's foot (tinea pedis), eczema, diabetes, and other conditions. If abnormalities occur, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly. Specific analyses are as follows:
1. External Irritation
Prolonged wearing of non-breathable shoes or socks, or prolonged friction, pressure, and other external stimuli on the top of the foot may also cause itching. Choose breathable footwear and socks, avoid wearing high heels or tight socks for extended periods, and reduce friction and compression on the foot.
2. Dry Skin
Excessively dry skin on the top of the foot—especially during autumn and winter or after prolonged exposure to dry environments—can lead to moisture loss and subsequent itching. Keep the skin moisturized by using moisturizing creams or lotions, avoid bathing with excessively hot water, and minimize the use of alkaline cleaning products.
3. Athlete’s Foot (Tinea Pedis)
Fungi thrive and multiply in warm, moist environments, making the feet an ideal habitat. Fungal infections can damage the skin barrier, trigger inflammatory responses, and cause itching, often accompanied by redness, blisters, peeling, cracks, and foul odor. Antifungal medications such as ketoconazole cream, terbinafine hydrochloride spray, or itraconazole dispersible tablets may be used under medical guidance.
4. Eczema
Eczema development is associated with genetic factors, immune system abnormalities, and environmental triggers. Foot eczema may result from contact with allergens, friction, or humidity-induced skin inflammation. In addition to itching, symptoms may include redness, papules, erosion, and oozing. It is advisable to treat eczema symptoms under a doctor’s supervision using medications such as desonide cream, hydrocortisone cream, or tacrolimus ointment.
5. Diabetes
Diabetes, triggered by genetic and dietary factors, may damage nerves and lead to abnormal sensations, including foot itching. Other symptoms may include numbness, tingling, and muscle weakness in the hands and feet. Doctors generally recommend prioritizing blood glucose control, using medications such as metformin hydrochloride tablets, gliclazide modified-release tablets, or repaglinide tablets to manage hyperglycemia symptoms.
In daily life, maintain a healthy lifestyle, improve dietary habits, adhere to regular作息 (sleep-wake cycles), enhance physical fitness, and reduce susceptibility to disease.
