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August 7, 2024Living with diabetes and itchy feet can bring many challenges, and one of the most frustrating can be the persistent diabetic itching feet. If you’ve ever experienced this, no need to worry. Our article will dive into the relations behind itching feet and diabetes and provide practical solutions to help you find relief.
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ToggleDoes Diabetes Make Your Feet Itch?
Yes, this terrible condition can result in diabetic itching feet in Arizona. High blood sugar levels can lead to itchy skin and other conditions. If you don’t control your blood sugar levels well, they can cause poor blood circulation, especially in the extremities like your feet. This poor circulation can lead to dryness and itchiness. Additionally, high glucose levels can damage your nerves and lead to a condition known as diabetic neuropathy. This condition can also cause itching.
Does Diabetes Cause Itchy Feet at Night?
Yes, diabetic itching feet can cause itchy feet at night. Itchy feet at night diabetes is often worse because you’re more likely to notice it when you’re not distracted by daily activities. Poor circulation and nerve damage can worsen this itching sensation. Also, your body’s natural circadian rhythms can affect how intensely you feel itchiness.
Why Do Your Feet Itch When You Have Diabetes?
Several factors contribute to diabetic itching feet:
- High blood sugar leads to narrowed and hardened blood vessels and reduces blood flow to diabetic feet in Phoenix, Arizona.
- Diabetes can make your feet become dry and cracked. This dryness leads to itching. Also, itchy skin and itchy feet diabetes can make your skin more sensitive.
- People with diabetes are more susceptible to fungal infections like athlete’s foot, which can cause intense itchy toes.
- Diabetic neuropathy can cause itching as a symptom of nerve damage.
- Nerve damage from diabetes can affect your sweat glands which leads to dry and itchy skin.
- Scratches and minor injuries can take longer to heal, increasing the risk of infections that cause itching.
- Diabetes can also cause itchy soles of feet. Poor circulation, a common issue for those with high blood sugar, reduces blood flow to the feet and leads to dry, irritated skin.
How to Stop Diabetic Foot Itching?
Here are some effective ways to manage diabetic itching feet:
Keep Blood Sugar Levels in Check
High blood sugar can worsen skin issues, so it’s important to manage your diabetes effectively. You need to constantly monitor your glucose levels and follow your prescribed treatment plan to prevent the complications that lead to itching.
Moisturize Regularly
Keep your feet hydrated using moisturizer specifically designed for diabetic skin. Since your dry skin can crack and itch, applying a good moisturizer daily is of the essence to help you maintain skin elasticity and moisture. Look for products with ingredients like urea or lactic acid, which are known to enhance skin hydration.
Wear Comfortable Footwear
Proper footwear is essential for improving circulation and reducing irritation. Go for shoes that fit well, provide good support, and allow your feet to breathe. Stay away from tight shoes or high heels, which can constrict blood flow and cause blisters or calluses that may lead to itching.
Practice Good Foot Hygiene
Wash your feet daily with lukewarm water and mild soap, then dry them thoroughly, especially the area between your itchy toes. Regularly check for any signs of infection, injury, or changes in your feet. Trim your toenails carefully and consider professional foot care if you have difficulty.
Use Medicated Creams
If itchy feet are due to fungal infections or inflammation, over-the-counter antifungal or corticosteroid creams can be helpful. Antifungal creams can treat conditions like athlete’s foot, while corticosteroid creams can reduce inflammation and itching. Always follow your foot doctors’ Phoenix directions and talk to our doctors before using new medications.
Are Itchy Feet a Sign of Diabetes?
Itchy feet can indeed be an early sign of diabetes, especially if accompanied by other symptoms like frequent urination, excessive thirst, and unexplained weight loss. If you experience persistent itching in your feet and suspect it might be linked to diabetes, it’s essential to talk to our healthcare professionals for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.
What Does Diabetic Itching Feel Like?
Diabetic itching feels like a constant, nagging irritation on your skin, especially on your feet and legs. It might start as a mild tickle but can get worse over time. The itch is often dry, and your skin may feel tight or rough. You might notice patches of red or scaly skin. It can feel like something is crawling under your skin.
Sometimes, it’s worse at night when you’re relaxing. As the day winds down, your circulation slows, and that’s when the itchy feet at night seem to flare up. Nerve damage from diabetes can make the itching even more intense. This nerve damage messes with your skin’s ability to feel or respond properly, so the itching can feel strange and deep, almost like a burning sensation.
Treating Diabetic Itching Feet Near Me in Arizona
If you’re struggling with itchy feet diabetes and need expert care, look no further than Foot & Ankle Specialty Centers in Arizona. With five branches in Gilbert, Scottsdale, Chandler, Mesa & Phoenix, AZ, we offer specialized and compassionate care to help you manage your symptoms and signs and improve your life quality. Don’t let diabetic foot itching disrupt your life. Schedule an appointment with our expert team today and find the relief you are looking for.
Itchy Feet Meaning and Treatment: Let’s Sum Up
Dealing with itchy feet when you have diabetes can be frustrating, but knowing the causes and how to manage them can make a big difference. By keeping your blood sugar levels in check, practicing good foot hygiene, and using appropriate treatments, you can alleviate the itching and improve your overall comfort. Remember, your healthcare team is there to help you, so don’t hesitate to reach out for advice and support.
FAQs
Yes, persistent itching of the feet can be an early sign of diabetes.
Diabetes can cause itching due to poor circulation, dry skin, fungal infections, and nerve damage.
Yes, diabetes can cause itchy feet at night due to poor circulation, dry skin, and nerve damage. These issues can become more noticeable when you’re resting.
To stop itchy feet quickly, try applying a cold compress, moisturizing with lotion or aloe vera, or using an anti-itch cream. Avoid scratching, as it can make it worse.