A foot rash can occur due to an allergic reaction or infection. Some rashes, such as athlete’s foot and contact dermatitis, can be treated with over-the-counter (OTC) medications. In some cases, prescription medication may be necessary. However, other types of foot rashes, such as cellulitis, may require medical intervention. This article explores common causes of foot rashes, their symptoms, and treatment options.
Common Causes of Foot Rashes
Athlete's Foot (Tinea Pedis)
Tinea pedis, more commonly known as athlete's foot, is a highly contagious fungal infection that develops on the feet. A fungus called Trichophyton causes athlete's foot. This fungus thrives in warm, moist environments, such as shower floors and the inside of shoes. Athlete's foot often leads to itchy, burning skin between the toes.
Symptoms of Athlete's Foot:
- Itchy, burning skin between the toes
- Dry, scaly, or cracked skin
- Flushed or raw skin
- Weak, discolored toenails
- Cracked or oozing blisters on the feet
Treatment of Athlete's Foot:
Most people can treat athlete's foot with an OTC antifungal treatment, usually an oral tablet, liquid, or cream. However, more severe infections may require prescription-strength medication. Topical steroids, such as hydrocortisone, can help reduce inflammation and relieve itching and soreness.
Contact Dermatitis
Contact dermatitis is a rash that occurs when a substance irritates the skin or produces an allergic reaction. Substances that may cause contact dermatitis include metals (such as nickel), makeup, latex, and frequent washing or contact with water or bleach.
Symptoms of Contact Dermatitis:
Symptoms can include red, itchy, and inflamed skin; dry, cracked skin; swelling; and blisters or bumps. When this irritant touches the foot's skin, it triggers an allergic reaction in which the body releases inflammatory chemicals.
Treatment of Contact Dermatitis:
People can avoid the substance they think is causing contact dermatitis to see whether their rash clears within 1 to 3 weeks. Antihistamines and topical corticosteroids may help relieve symptoms.
Poison Ivy, Poison Oak, and Poison Sumac
Poison ivy, poison oak, and sumac grow in wooded and marshy areas. Their sap contains an allergen called urushiol. Urushiol can trigger an allergic skin reaction or contact dermatitis. About 50% to 75% of adults in the United States are allergic to urushiol.
Symptoms of Poison Ivy, Oak, or Sumac Rash:
- Flushed, itchy skin
- Bumps or blisters on the skin
- Swollen, tender skin
- Difficulty breathing
- Fever
Treatment of Poison Ivy, Oak, or Sumac Rashes:
These rashes usually clear up by themselves within a few weeks. If someone believes that they have had exposure to urushiol, they can remove the oils immediately by washing themselves and their clothes with soap and water. OTC topical treatments, such as calamine lotion and hydrocortisone, can help relieve itching and swelling. A doctor may prescribe an oral antihistamine to lessen the allergic reaction.
Dyshidrotic Eczema (Dyshidrosis)
Dyshidrotic eczema, or dyshidrosis, is a common form of eczema that causes itchy blisters on the palms of the hands and soles of the feet. According to the National Eczema Association, dyshidrotic eczema is twice as common in females as males.
Symptoms of Dyshidrotic Eczema:
- Deep blisters on the toes, palms, edges of the fingers, and soles of the feet
- Flushed, itchy skin
- Scaly, cracked, or flaking skin
- Swollen, tender skin
Treatment of Dyshidrotic Eczema:
There is currently no cure for dyshidrotic eczema. Treatments for this skin condition involve reducing symptoms and preventing secondary infections and other complications. A doctor may prescribe a topical steroid to reduce swelling and itching. Botox injections can lessen sweating and excess moisture in the hands and feet, which can prevent infections. At-home treatments for dyshidrotic eczema include soaking the hands and feet in cool water, applying a cold compress to the affected skin, and using moisturizer or cream that repairs the skin barrier.
Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD)
Hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD) is a skin condition that occurs due to coxsackievirus and enterovirus infections. HFMD is highly contagious and people can contract it by touching a person with the infection, touching objects or surfaces that carry the virus, or breathing air that contains the virus particles. Although HFMD is most common among young children under the age of 5, anyone can develop the infection.
Symptoms of HFMD:
- Small spots appearing on the hands and feet
- Mouth sores
- Painful blisters
- Fever
- Sore throat
- Loss of appetite
- Pain when eating or swallowing
Treatment of HFMD:
There are no specific treatments for HFMD. People may be able to manage symptoms with OTC medication that reduces fever and pain. Drinking cold liquids can help keep people hydrated while soothing a sore throat. Most people with HFMD get better within 7 to 10 days.
Cellulitis
Cellulitis is a bacterial infection that develops in the deep layers of the skin and on the lower legs and feet. People with light skin tones may notice reddened skin in the affected area, and people with darker skin tones may notice skin that is darker than the surrounding area.
Symptoms of Cellulitis:
- Skin that appears swollen
- Skin that feels warm, tender, or painful to the touch
- Skin dimpling
- Blisters
- Fatigue
- Fever or chills
- Cold sweats
- Nausea or vomiting
- Swollen, tender lymph nodes
Treatment of Cellulitis:
Cellulitis can develop suddenly and can be life-threatening without treatment. Doctors usually prescribe antibiotics to treat the bacterial infection responsible for cellulitis. Other beneficial at-home treatment options include keeping the affected leg or foot raised to reduce swelling, taking OTC pain medications to relieve pain and reduce fever, avoiding scratching or itching the affected skin, and keeping the area clean and dry.
Scabies
Scabies is a skin condition that occurs when microscopic scabies mites burrow into the upper layer of the skin. These mites then feed on skin cells and lay eggs. People who have not had scabies before may develop symptoms within 3 to 6 weeks of exposure. People who have previously had scabies may develop symptoms in 1 to 4 days.
Symptoms of Scabies:
A scabies infestation can lead to a skin rash and intense itching. The affected area of skin may develop pimple-like blisters or thick, crusty scales.
Treatment of Scabies:
People cannot treat scabies with at-home remedies. A doctor must prescribe topical medications that kill scabies mites. After starting treatment, people should disinfect their bedding, clothing, and any other fabrics that they regularly use. This will help prevent recurring infestations.
When to See a Healthcare Professional
People should contact a healthcare professional if their foot rash is painful or interferes with their daily activities. Parents and caregivers should see a healthcare professional if a child or infant develops a skin rash or blisters. It is important for a person to seek medical attention straight away if their rash does not improve with treatment or they develop a fever.
Human feet are particularly susceptible to rashes, largely because people typically keep their feet covered much of the time. You may not be aware of signs of a foot rash initially until you begin to experience bothersome symptoms. Many foot rashes have similar symptoms, yet expert podiatrists can accurately diagnose and treat your foot rash. It is important to book an appointment as soon as you develop a foot rash to ensure that your symptoms do not worsen and the underlying cause of the rash is properly addressed.