Itchy toes can be caused by athlete’s foot, fungal infections, chilblains, contact dermatitis, or insect bites. Most can be treated with over-the-counter applications, but severe symptoms may require medical treatment. Athlete’s foot is contagious and can spread to other areas of the body. Chilblains can be prevented by keeping extremities warm. Contact dermatitis can be caused by irritants or allergens and can be treated with medicated creams or discontinuing use of the product causing the symptom.
The most common causes of itchy toes include athlete’s foot and other fungal infections, chilblains, contact dermatitis or allergic reactions, and sometimes simple insect bites. Most of these ailments are easily treated with over-the-counter applications of sprays, creams, or lotions. Others, such as chilblains, may require prompt medical treatment if severe symptoms are present. Itchy toes can be associated with various symptoms, such as peeling skin and redness or swelling, which can help diagnose the condition.
Most frequently, the onset of itchy toes is due to athlete’s foot or other types of fungal infections. People who spend a lot of time barefoot in damp environments, such as locker rooms or communal swimming pools, often contract the fungus. Although uncomfortable, athlete’s foot is usually easy to treat. Over-the-counter medicated creams or sprays often cure the disorder. In some cases, however, a dermatologist can provide a prescription-strength topical ointment. When a bacterial infection develops due to excessive scratching or breaking of the skin, antibiotics may also be prescribed.
Athlete’s foot is contagious. To avoid spreading it to others or catching it from someone else, people should avoid walking barefoot in common areas and sharing towels or footwear with others. Not only can it be passed from one person to another, but it can also spread to other areas of the body, such as the groin. When this happens, however, it’s called jock itch.
Not all occurrences of itchy toes stem from athlete’s foot. When blisters and painful inflammations are also present and the individual lives in a very cold and wet climate, the cause may be chilblain. Similar to frostbite or other conditions caused by extreme weather, frost is usually preventable by keeping your extremities warm. If severe symptoms are present, prompt medical treatment may be needed to prevent long-term damage to the fingers or toes, which are the areas of the body most commonly affected by this condition.
Sometimes, contact dermatitis can cause itchy toes when the foot is exposed to irritants that people may be allergic to, such as new laundry detergent or other chemicals that cause an allergic reaction. It can also happen because of something as simple as a pair of new leather shoes. Some medicated creams or a cool compress can help. Of course, discontinuing use of the product causing the symptom will reduce the chance of the condition recurring.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
