Were you ever told that if your palm itches, you’ll have financial fortune in the near future? Whether or not it’s correct, I don’t think it applies to itchy feet. So what does it mean if you have itchy feet?… especially itchiness around the interspaces between the toes?
It may mean you are suffering from something called Athletes Foot or Tinea Pedis, a fungal infection involving the skin of the feet. Patients commonly present with a light rash along the skin of the plantar foot or with macerated digital interspaces (having wet skin in between the toes that commonly turns white/yellow).
In South Florida, its hot and humid which the fungus thrive in. Having our feet in shoes all day with our toes pressed together give the fungus a chance to catch hold and multiply. Besides anti-fungal powders and creams for the bottom of the foot, a great trick to help treat macerated interspaces is to “paint them with betadine.” The brown colored fluid (betadine/iodine/povidone) can easily be put on a Q-tip or piece of gauze/paper towel and rubbed along skin in interspaces to paint. Assuming you aren’t allergic to betadine, it is a great agent because not only is it caustic to all microbes (bacteria, fungus, virus…), it also dries the area you apply it to!
This treatment requires consistent applications for a minimum of one week. During this time, take a few more precautions à change socks midday & use cotton ball between toes. If you notice redness or pain, the fungal infection may have a concomitant bacterial infection. This can get worse quickly so be sure to contact a professional and seek attention.
Dr. Adam Oxios | The Podiatry Doctors | https://thepodiatrydoctors.com
