What Does Nighttime Foot Itching Indicate?

According to Saed News Health Service, foot itching at night has various causes and can be very bothersome. This article highlights some of the most common reasons your feet may itch at night and what you can do to relieve it.

Undoubtedly, foot itching at night is extremely annoying, especially if it disrupts your sleep. Usually, this problem is related to a skin condition. Eczema, dry skin, common irritants, and fungal infections such as athlete’s foot are among the most likely causes. In some cases, persistent foot itching may indicate a more serious underlying problem. This article outlines the common causes of nighttime foot itching and steps you can take to ease it.

Causes of Nighttime Foot Itching

Eczema Activation:
Eczema is one of the most common causes of foot itching. In such cases, the skin becomes stiff and dry, with symptoms such as redness, burning, and flaking. Warm weather or sweaty feet can worsen the condition. Treatment involves using a ceramide-containing ointment and avoiding triggers that aggravate the skin.

Dry Skin:
Dry skin on the feet, like any other part of the body exposed to cold or dry weather, can cause itching. In such cases, it is recommended to apply a foot-specific moisturizer before bedtime and keep your body hydrated. Petroleum jelly (Vaseline) can also help.

Athlete’s Foot:
Fungal infections such as athlete’s foot can cause itching, pain, and redness. Over-the-counter antifungal creams are available and should be applied once or twice daily.

Allergic Reactions:
Itching, redness, swelling, and blisters on the feet may indicate contact dermatitis, which occurs when the skin reacts to an allergen. This can even be caused by your shoes. If you notice a reaction after wearing new socks or shoes that lasts for several weeks and causes nighttime itching, over-the-counter anti-itch creams can help.

Psoriasis Activation:
Some people may experience foot itching due to psoriasis, an autoimmune condition triggered by injury or infection, which may also cause cracks on the feet. In such cases, topical steroid creams like cortisone are used.

Insect Bites:
Nighttime itching may sometimes result from insect bites. Typically, insect bites are oval and brown, and traces of the insect’s body or blood may appear on your pillow or mattress. While not dangerous, bites can be irritating. Anti-itch creams or over-the-counter antihistamines can provide relief.

Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS):
Restless legs syndrome is a condition that makes your legs feel restless or weak, especially at night, and may be accompanied by pain, tingling, and itching. Underlying issues like iron deficiency can contribute to this condition. Doctors may prescribe medications such as dopamine boosters, muscle relaxants, or calcium channel blockers.