What are the common causes of itchy fingers. How can you identify the symptoms of various conditions leading to finger itching. What are the most effective treatments for itchy fingers. How to prevent and manage itchy fingers at home.

Common Causes of Itchy Fingers: Understanding the Root of Discomfort

Itchy fingers can be a persistent and irritating problem, often stemming from various underlying conditions. Understanding the causes is crucial for effective treatment and management. Here are some of the most common reasons behind this uncomfortable sensation:

Contact Dermatitis: When Everyday Objects Become Irritants

Contact dermatitis occurs when the skin reacts to something it touches, leading to itching and inflammation. This condition can affect the fingers and hands, causing discomfort and visible symptoms.

• Symptoms include itching across fingers and hands, pain, swelling, dry skin patches, small red bumps, and inflammation
• Common triggers: fragrances, metal jewelry, cobalt in hair dyes or deodorants, some hand creams, and household disinfectants

Can contact dermatitis be prevented. The best prevention method is to identify and avoid the specific allergen causing the reaction. Keeping a diary of potential triggers and symptoms can help pinpoint the culprit.

Dyshidrotic Eczema: Tiny Blisters, Big Discomfort

Dyshidrotic eczema, also known as pompholyx, is characterized by small, itchy, fluid-filled blisters on the fingers, hands, and often toes and feet. This condition is associated with stress, skin irritants, and seasonal allergies.

• Symptoms: small fluid-filled blisters, severe itching, painful skin, redness, inflammation, and flaky or cracked skin
• More common in women and individuals prone to allergies

How does dyshidrotic eczema differ from other skin conditions. The distinctive feature of this condition is the presence of tiny, itchy blisters specifically on the fingers and palms, setting it apart from other forms of eczema.

Psoriasis: When Skin Cells Overproduce

Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition characterized by the rapid buildup of skin cells, resulting in itchy, scaly patches. While it commonly affects joints, it can also appear on fingers and nails.

• Symptoms: redness, inflammation, silvery-white scales, dry and cracked skin, pain around inflamed areas
• Can be stubborn and challenging to treat

Is psoriasis contagious. No, psoriasis is not contagious. It’s an autoimmune condition that causes rapid skin cell growth, leading to the characteristic symptoms.

Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy: When Diabetes Affects the Nerves

Peripheral neuropathy is a complication of diabetes that occurs when high blood sugar levels cause nerve damage. This condition can affect both hands and feet, leading to various sensations including itching.

• Symptoms may include numbness, tingling, burning sensations, and itching in fingers and toes
• Often accompanied by other diabetic symptoms

How is diabetic peripheral neuropathy diagnosed. Diagnosis typically involves a combination of physical examination, blood tests to check blood sugar levels, and specialized tests to assess nerve function.

Identifying Symptoms: Key Indicators of Itchy Finger Conditions

Recognizing the specific symptoms associated with itchy fingers can help in identifying the underlying cause and seeking appropriate treatment. Here are some key indicators to watch for:

Visual Cues: What to Look for on Your Skin

Visual symptoms can provide valuable clues about the nature of the condition causing itchy fingers:

• Redness and inflammation: Common in contact dermatitis and psoriasis
• Small, fluid-filled blisters: Characteristic of dyshidrotic eczema
• Silvery-white scales: Typically seen in psoriasis
• Dry, cracked skin: Can occur in various conditions, including eczema and psoriasis

Why do some skin conditions cause visible changes while others don’t. The visibility of symptoms often depends on the specific way each condition affects the skin cells or immune response, leading to different manifestations on the skin’s surface.

Sensory Symptoms: Beyond the Itch

While itching is the primary complaint, other sensations may accompany it:

• Pain or tenderness: Often associated with inflamed skin in conditions like contact dermatitis
• Burning or tingling: May indicate nerve involvement, as in diabetic peripheral neuropathy
• Tightness or stiffness: Can occur with dry, scaly skin conditions

Can the intensity of itching indicate the severity of the condition. While severe itching can be distressing, the intensity doesn’t always correlate directly with the condition’s severity. Some mild conditions can cause intense itching, while more serious issues might have less pronounced itching.

Effective Treatments: Alleviating Itchy Fingers and Underlying Conditions

Treatment for itchy fingers varies depending on the underlying cause. Here are some effective approaches for managing different conditions:

Contact Dermatitis: Breaking the Cycle of Irritation

Treating contact dermatitis involves both avoiding triggers and managing symptoms:

• Allergen avoidance: Identify and eliminate contact with irritants
• Antihistamine creams or oral medications: Reduce itching and inflammation
• Corticosteroid creams: Alleviate inflammation and itching
• Phototherapy: Exposing skin to controlled ultraviolet light can help in some cases

How quickly can contact dermatitis symptoms improve with treatment. With proper treatment and allergen avoidance, symptoms often begin to improve within a few days, though complete resolution may take several weeks.

Dyshidrotic Eczema: Soothing the Blisters

Managing dyshidrotic eczema focuses on reducing symptoms and preventing flare-ups:

• Cold compresses: Reduce itching and swelling
• Regular moisturizing: Prevent skin dryness and cracking
• Mild soaps and detergents: Minimize skin irritation
• Topical corticosteroids: Prescribed for more severe cases

Are there any lifestyle changes that can help manage dyshidrotic eczema. Yes, stress management techniques, avoiding harsh soaps, and keeping hands dry can help reduce flare-ups of dyshidrotic eczema.

Psoriasis: Tackling Skin Cell Overgrowth

Psoriasis treatment often involves a combination of approaches:

• Topical treatments: Corticosteroids, vitamin D analogs, salicylic acid creams
• Oral medications: Prescribed for more severe cases
• Phototherapy: Controlled exposure to UVB light
• Biologics: Advanced treatments for severe cases

How long does it typically take to see improvement in psoriasis symptoms with treatment. The response to psoriasis treatment varies, but many people start seeing improvement within a few weeks to a couple of months of consistent treatment.

Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy: Addressing the Root Cause

Managing diabetic peripheral neuropathy involves controlling blood sugar levels and addressing symptoms:

• Blood sugar management: Crucial for preventing further nerve damage
• Pain management medications: May include antidepressants or anticonvulsants
• Topical treatments: Capsaicin cream or lidocaine patches for localized relief
• Physical therapy: Can help improve muscle strength and reduce pain

Can diabetic peripheral neuropathy be reversed. While some nerve damage may be permanent, maintaining good blood sugar control can prevent further damage and may even improve some symptoms over time.

Home Remedies and Self-Care: Managing Itchy Fingers Naturally

In addition to medical treatments, several home remedies and self-care practices can help alleviate itchy fingers:

Soothing Soaks: Harnessing the Power of Water

Soaking affected fingers in cool water can provide immediate relief from itching:

• Plain cool water soak: 10-15 minutes for quick relief
• Colloidal oatmeal bath: Add finely ground oatmeal to water for anti-inflammatory effects
• Apple cider vinegar dilution: Mix equal parts water and apple cider vinegar for potential antimicrobial benefits

How often should you soak itchy fingers. While soothing, limit soaks to 2-3 times daily to prevent skin from drying out excessively.

Natural Moisturizers: Nourishing Dry, Itchy Skin

Keeping skin well-moisturized is crucial for managing itchy fingers:

• Coconut oil: Natural anti-inflammatory and moisturizing properties
• Aloe vera gel: Cooling and soothing for irritated skin
• Shea butter: Rich in vitamins and fatty acids for deep moisturizing

When is the best time to apply moisturizers. Apply moisturizers immediately after bathing or washing hands while skin is still damp to lock in hydration.

Dietary Considerations: Eating for Skin Health

Certain dietary changes may help improve overall skin health and reduce inflammation:

• Omega-3 fatty acids: Found in fish, flaxseeds, and walnuts, may help reduce inflammation
• Antioxidant-rich foods: Berries, leafy greens, and nuts can support skin health
• Probiotics: May help balance the skin’s microbiome and reduce inflammation

Can dietary changes alone cure itchy fingers. While diet can support overall skin health, it’s usually not sufficient as a standalone treatment for specific skin conditions causing itchy fingers.

Prevention Strategies: Minimizing the Risk of Itchy Fingers

Preventing itchy fingers often involves a combination of good hygiene practices and lifestyle adjustments:

Protective Measures: Shielding Your Skin

Taking steps to protect your hands can prevent many causes of itchy fingers:

• Wear gloves: Use when handling potential irritants or allergens
• Choose hypoallergenic products: Opt for fragrance-free and gentle formulations
• Avoid hot water: Use lukewarm water for washing to prevent drying out skin

How effective are cotton gloves in preventing itchy fingers. Cotton gloves can be very effective in reducing direct contact with irritants and allergens, but they may not be suitable for all situations, especially where waterproofing is needed.

Stress Management: Calming the Mind and Skin

Stress can exacerbate many skin conditions, so managing stress is crucial:

• Regular exercise: Helps reduce stress and improve overall health
• Meditation or mindfulness: Can help manage stress levels
• Adequate sleep: Essential for skin repair and overall health

How does stress impact skin conditions. Stress can trigger inflammation in the body, potentially worsening skin conditions and increasing itching sensation.

When to Seek Medical Attention: Recognizing Serious Symptoms

While many cases of itchy fingers can be managed at home, certain symptoms warrant professional medical attention:

Red Flags: Symptoms That Require Immediate Care

Be alert for these signs that may indicate a more serious condition:

• Severe pain or swelling
• Signs of infection (increased redness, warmth, pus)
• Persistent symptoms that don’t respond to home treatment
• Sudden onset of symptoms accompanied by other health changes

How can you differentiate between a minor irritation and a condition requiring medical attention. Persistent symptoms lasting more than a week, severe pain, or signs of infection generally indicate the need for professional evaluation.

Diagnostic Procedures: What to Expect at the Doctor’s Office

When seeking medical help for itchy fingers, your healthcare provider may perform several diagnostic procedures:

• Physical examination: Close inspection of affected areas
• Patch testing: To identify specific allergens in cases of contact dermatitis
• Skin biopsy: May be necessary for conditions like psoriasis
• Blood tests: To check for underlying conditions like diabetes

What information should you prepare before visiting a doctor for itchy fingers. Keep a detailed record of your symptoms, including when they started, any potential triggers, and what treatments you’ve tried. This information can help your doctor make an accurate diagnosis.

Living with Chronic Itchy Fingers: Long-Term Management Strategies

For those dealing with persistent or recurring itchy fingers, developing long-term management strategies is crucial:

Adapting Daily Routines: Minimizing Triggers and Discomfort

Making adjustments to daily activities can help manage chronic itchy fingers:

• Use gentle, fragrance-free products for hand washing and moisturizing
• Avoid prolonged water exposure and always moisturize after washing
• Consider using a humidifier in dry environments to maintain skin hydration

How can you maintain an active lifestyle while managing chronic itchy fingers. Focus on activities that don’t exacerbate symptoms, use protective gear when necessary, and always have moisturizer on hand for quick relief.

Emotional Impact: Coping with Chronic Skin Conditions

Living with chronic itchy fingers can have psychological effects:

• Seek support from friends, family, or support groups
• Consider cognitive-behavioral therapy to manage stress and anxiety related to the condition
• Practice self-care activities that promote overall well-being

Can chronic skin conditions affect mental health. Yes, persistent skin conditions can lead to anxiety, depression, and reduced quality of life. It’s important to address both the physical and emotional aspects of these conditions.

Understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatments for itchy fingers is crucial for effective management. Whether dealing with contact dermatitis, dyshidrotic eczema, psoriasis, or other conditions, a combination of medical treatments, home remedies, and lifestyle adjustments can provide relief. Remember to consult with a healthcare professional for persistent or severe symptoms, and don’t underestimate the impact of stress management and overall health on skin conditions. With the right approach, it’s possible to find relief from itchy fingers and improve quality of life.

Itchy fingers: Symptoms, causes, and treatment

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Some people have persistently itchy fingers, either alone or with other symptoms. Nerve problems, scabies, and skin conditions — such as psoriasis — are possible causes. Treatment will depend on the cause, but soaking fingers in cool water may bring some relief.

A person might feel the itchiness on the surface of their fingers, under the skin, or only on some fingers. While most of the time itchy fingers are nothing to worry about, in some cases it may be a sign of an underlying condition that needs a doctor’s attention.

In this article, we look at the causes, symptoms, and treatment of itchy fingers. We also give tips on how to get rid of the itching.

There are many different reasons why a person’s fingers might itch. In the list below, we discuss the common causes and their associated symptoms.

Contact dermatitis

Share on PinterestItchy fingers can be caused by various skin conditions, including contact dermatitis.

Contact dermatitis, also known as contact eczema, occurs when a person touches something that irritates their skin.

A person with contact dermatitis may also notice:

• itching across the fingers and hands
• pain or swelling
• patches of dry skin
• small, red bumps on the skin
• redness and inflammation

Because the hands and fingers come into contact with many different things over the course of the day, it may take some time to determine what is causing the allergic reaction.

People who have regular flare-ups should keep a diary of common allergens they come into contact with and their symptoms to look for a pattern.

Common triggers for contact dermatitis include:

• fragrances
• metal jewelry, belts, or watches
• cobalt found in hair dyes or deodorants
• some hand creams
• household disinfectants

Treatment

The best way to prevent contact dermatitis is to identify and avoid the allergen.

When a person comes into contact with an allergen, they can relieve their painful, itching symptoms by using the following:

• antihistamine creams or oral over-the-counter medications
• corticosteroid creams
• phototherapy, involving exposing the skin to ultraviolet light

A person can get antihistamine creams online, and stronger versions can be obtained on prescription from a doctor. Corticosteroid creams can also be bought online or obtained on prescription.

Dyshidrotic eczema

A person with dyshidrotic eczema, also called foot-and-hand eczema or pompholyx, will notice tiny, itchy, fluid-filled blisters on their hands, fingers and often toes and feet. This condition is thought to be associated with stress, skin irritants, and seasonal allergies.

A person with dyshidrotic eczema may notice:

• small, fluid-filled blisters on the fingers
• severe itchiness
• painful skin
• redness and inflammation
• flaky, scaly, or cracked skin

People who are susceptible to allergies are more likely to be affected, and women are twice as likely to have dyshidrotic eczema than men.

Treatment

To treat dyshidrotic eczema, a person can try:

• putting a cold compress on the affected area to reduce itchiness and swelling
• moisturizing regularly to prevent the skin from drying out
• using mild soaps and detergents

Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a skin condition that causes skin cells to quickly build up, resulting in patches of flaky, itchy, scaly skin. Psoriasis can affect different areas of a person’s body, primarily the joints, but also areas such as fingers and nails.

Along with itching skin, a person with psoriasis may also notice:

• redness and inflammation
• areas of slivery-white scaly skin
• very dry, cracked, and sometimes bleeding skin
• pain around the inflamed patches of skin

Treatment

Psoriasis can be stubborn, and it is often a case of trial and error to find an effective treatment.

Possible treatments include:

• oral medications, usually prescribed by a doctor
• corticosteroid creams
• creams containing vitamin D analogs
• salicylic acid creams
• phototherapy

Diabetic peripheral neuropathy

Peripheral neuropathy is a condition related to diabetes. It occurs when high blood sugar levels cause nerve damage. This can affect both the hands and feet.

A person with diabetic peripheral neuropathy may notice:

• their fingers becoming sensitive to touch
• a loss of feeling or numbness in their fingers
• pain or weakness in their fingers

Diabetic peripheral neuropathy cannot be cured, though there are treatments to help relieve symptoms and to slow its progress.

Treatment

To treat peripheral neuropathy, a person can try:

• lifestyle changes, such as getting regular exercise and stopping smoking
• getting their blood pressure under control
• stabilizing their blood sugar levels
• medications, for example, anticonvulsants and antidepressants
• creams containing capsaicin

Scabies

Scabies occurs when tiny mites burrow into a person’s skin and lay their eggs, causing small, itchy bumps. The symptoms can appear up to 8 weeks after a person comes into contact with the scabies mite.

The mites usually burrow in areas where the skin folds, including between the fingers and toes, inner elbows and knees, and genitals.

Scabies is common and extremely contagious. It is one of the most common skin conditions in the developing world.

A person with scabies may notice:

• small blisters or pus-filled bumps appearing on the surface of the skin
• tiny burrow-marks or tracks left by the mites in the skin
• skin becoming thick and scaly
• itching that becomes worse after showering or bathing
• itching that worsens at nighttime

Scabies tends to spread through skin-to-skin contact, though sharing clothing, towels or bedding can also pass it on.

Treatment

To treat scabies a person must see their doctor to get scabicide treatments that kill the mites and their eggs. Scabies can be notoriously difficult to get rid of and may need several rounds of treatment.

Share on PinterestWashing hands regularly with mild soap may help to treat or prevent itchy fingers.

A person may be able to manage the symptoms of itchy fingers at home, though if the underlying cause is not known, they should consult their doctor. Diagnosing the cause is key to finding the correct treatment.

Sometimes medication is not necessary and, by making a few adjustments, a person may see a significant improvement in their symptoms.

The following steps may help, in many cases, to treat or prevent itchy fingers from occurring:

• washing the hands regularly and thoroughly with a mild soap
• making sure that hands are completely dry after washing
• soaking fingers in cool water to relieve itching
• avoiding harsh skin care products that may cause irritation
• wearing gloves when in contact with harsh chemicals, including cleaning products
• wearing gloves during cold, dry weather
• moisturizing often with hypoallergenic skin cream or lotion

Some people find that calamine lotion can be soothing for itchy skin lesions.

In more severe cases, topical medications, such as corticosteroid, antifungal, and antimicrobial creams, may be needed.

If home remedies and topical treatments are not working, a person may need to visit a doctor who can prescribe oral medication, such as antibiotics, antifungals, corticosteroids, immune suppressants, or modulators to help get rid of the condition.

While itchy fingers can be frustrating, if there are no additional symptoms, it may be that keeping them well moisturized can help to reduce or eliminate the itchiness.

If the itchiness does not go away or keeps coming back, a person should visit their doctor to rule out any underlying problems.

Pompholyx – NHS

Pompholyx (also called dyshidrotic eczema) is a type of eczema that affects the hands or feet. It’s usually a long-term condition, but treatment can help control the symptoms.

Check if you have pompholyx

Pompholyx causes itchy blisters on the hands or feet that come and go. The symptoms usually last 2 to 3 weeks at a time.

The first symptom is often a burning or prickling feeling in the affected area.

Fluid-filled blisters then appear on the skin. These are usually very itchy and may leak fluid.

Credit:

Vilaiphab Khanyavong
https://www.shutterstock.com/image-photo/dyshidrotic-eczema-allergic-skin-condition-symptom-2041694828

When the blisters go away, the skin may be dry, cracked and sore. Sometimes it might bleed.

Pompholyx most often affects the fingers and palms.

Credit:

DR. P. MARAZZI/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY

https://www.sciencephoto.com/media/600559/view

It can also affect the toes and soles of the feet.

Credit:

ISM/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
https://www.sciencephoto.com/media/1159184/view

If you’re not sure it’s pompholyx

Other conditions can cause sore, itchy patches or blisters on the hands and feet, including hand, foot and mouth disease, psoriasis or athlete’s foot.

Do not try to diagnose yourself – see a GP if you’re worried.

Non-urgent advice: See a GP if:

• you think you have pompholyx
• you have pompholyx and the blisters are very painful, leak yellow or green pus or are covered in a yellow-brown crust – these are signs of an infection
• you have any other changes to your skin you’re worried about

Treatments for pompholyx

Pompholyx is usually a long-term condition that comes and goes over time. Treatment can help control the symptoms.

The main treatments for pompholyx are:

• moisturisers (emollients) – used every day to stop the skin becoming dry
• steroid creams and ointments (topical steroids) – used for a few weeks at a time to reduce irritation and soreness

If the blisters leak fluid, a GP may suggest soaking your skin in potassium permanganate solution. This helps dry the blisters and reduces the risk of them getting infected.

If the blisters become infected, a GP may prescribe antibiotics.

Treatments from a specialist

If your symptoms are severe or treatment is not helping, a GP may refer you to a skin specialist (dermatologist).

A dermatologist may recommend other treatments, such as:

• steroid tablets
• treatment with ultraviolet (UV) light
• other medicines, such as alitretinoin

Things you can do to ease symptoms of pompholyx

If you have pompholyx, your skin may get irritated easily. There are some things you can try to see if they help.

Do

• wash your hands with warm (not hot or cold) water and use a moisturiser (emollient) soap substitute instead of regular soap

• wear protective gloves (ideally with a cotton lining) when using chemicals like shampoos, cleansers and detergents

• wear socks, tights or stockings made from cotton or silk, rather than nylon

• wear shoes made from leather, rather than plastic or rubber

• avoid anything you think causes your symptoms, such as cleansers or detergents

A pharmacist can help with pompholyx

If your skin gets very itchy and it affects your sleep, ask a pharmacist about antihistamines that make you drowsy (sedating antihistamines).

If you take these before going to bed, they can help you get to sleep.

What causes pompholyx

It’s not clear exactly what causes pompholyx.

Certain things are thought to cause symptoms in some people, including:

• contact with strong chemicals like soaps, cleansers and detergents
• an allergy or sensitivity to certain metals, such as nickel or cobalt
• getting your hands wet regularly – for example, if you’re a hairdresser
• stress
• heat and sweat

Information:

If you notice something causes your symptoms, avoiding it as much as possible may help keep your symptoms under control.

Page last reviewed: 02 March 2022
Next review due: 02 March 2025

causes, treatment, prevention — Allergika Ukraine

Possible causes of itchy skin:

There are many different causes that can cause skin itching. We will review the most common ones below.

Contact dermatitis

With contact dermatitis, a person often experiences itching of the palms. Contact dermatitis can be caused by any chemicals, plastics, or metals that a person touches or has direct contact with. Contact dermatitis is often observed in beauty salon workers, medical staff, as a reaction to the frequent use of latex gloves.

Contact dermatitis is accompanied not only by itching, but also by other symptoms, such as:

• Eruptions: small to large red spots with peeling
• Cracks and wounds
• Irritation and redness

Diagnosis of allergic contact dermatitis requires skin tests – patch tests, which will help determine what the person is reacting to. The feasibility of conducting patch tests is considered at the appointment with an allergist or dermatologist.

Common triggers for contact dermatitis include:

• fragrances and fragrances
• metal jewelry, belts or watches
• cobalt found in hair dyes or deodorants
• some hand creams
• household disinfectants and detergents
• cosmetics, including decorative cosmetics

The best way to prevent contact dermatitis is to identify and avoid the irritant.

Sometimes it can be very difficult, so there are several remedies that can help relieve itching from contact dermatitis.

Dyshidrotic eczema or dyshidrosis

A person with dyshidrotic eczema may notice tiny, itchy, fluid-filled blisters on the palms and fingers, and often also on the toes and feet. The condition is thought to be related to stress, substances that can irritate the skin, and seasonal allergies.

A person with dyshidrotic eczema may notice:

• small, fluid-filled blisters on fingers
• severe itching
• skin soreness
• redness and inflammation
• peeling and cracking of the palms

People who are sensitive to allergies are more likely to develop dyshidrotic eczema. In women, dyshidrotic eczema occurs twice as often as in men.

Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a skin disease characterized by increased production of keratinocytes, which results in pink patches with scaly whitish plaques. Psoriasis most commonly affects the skin over the joints, the scalp, and the skin on the hands and nails.

• In addition to itchy skin, a person with psoriasis may also notice:
• Skin irritation and redness
• White plaques, scaling and inflamed
• Dry skin and cracks
• Soreness in the area of ​​rash

Scabies

Itching of the skin of the hands and fingers is one of the important symptoms of scabies, a skin disease caused by the scabies mite. Infection with scabies through contact with a sick person is the most common route of infection. But this can also happen when using dishes, towels and any objects that the patient has touched. Roughly speaking, you can get scabies even after a trip on public transport, if you grab the handrails immediately after an infected person.

Ticks usually hide in skin folds, including between fingers and toes.

Scabies is common and highly contagious. It is one of the most common skin diseases in developing countries.

When to see a doctor

Sometimes a person can cope with itchy hands at home, just by changing their lifestyle a little. If home remedies and topical treatments don’t work, you may need to see a doctor to rule out more serious skin conditions and prescribe other medications.

causes and how to get rid of it? ✓ Author’s articles of the Clinic of Podology Poljot in Moscow

Itching between the toes may indicate the development of various diseases: fungus, eczema, psoriasis, dermatitis, allergies to materials that make up shoes or socks. When this symptom appears, you should not resort to self-medication and traditional medicine, but it is better to immediately contact an experienced dermatologist until the disease has passed a chronic or acute form.

Diagnosis and treatment

During the appointment, the dermatologist conducts a visual examination of the skin of the legs, finds out the time when the discomfort began, and collects data on the patient’s lifestyle. To exclude other pathologies and accurately determine the diagnosis, a number of clinical tests are prescribed:

• scraping from the nail plates and skin of the toes;
• blood chemistry;
• analysis of feces for the presence of helminths;
• analysis for immunoglobulins, thyroid hormones;
• application tests.

If necessary, the patient is referred for a consultation with a gastroenterologist to rule out eczema.

The main cause of itching between the toes is a fungal infection. With mycosis, discomfort is felt more strongly after water procedures. If scraping from the nails and skin of the legs showed the presence of fungal spores, then complex antimycotic therapy is prescribed, taking into account the age and condition of the patient. In the absence of timely treatment, the fungus captures the nails, causing a change in their color, delamination and increased fragility. In severe cases, mycosis leads to flaking of the nail plates, which is accompanied by severe pain during walking and can be complicated by infection of the soft tissues of the toes.

Prevention

To avoid itching of the skin between the toes, you should follow the rules of personal hygiene:

• do pedicure regularly;
• wash your feet daily with antibacterial soap;
• when visiting swimming pools, baths, water parks, use individual hygiene products, personal shoes and a towel;

• wear comfortable shoes in size, excluding rubbing of the skin of the legs;
• use cotton socks.

With increased sweating of the feet, it is recommended to use antifungal powders, protective varnishes and gels for nails.

If you suffer from severe itching between your toes, do not self-medicate! Contact the dermatologists of the Podology Clinic and get rid of discomfort in the legs before complications appear.

Author of the article: Poletskaya Maria Nikolaevna

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This article appears in sections

Psoriasis

Treatment of hyperhidrosis

Interdigital cracks

Mycosis of the skin

Atopic dermatitis

Microscopic studies

Eczema

PACT therapy

Foot fungus (foot mycosis)

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