What should you know about feet very itchy at night?

Very itchy feet at night may reflect fungal infection, eczema, contact irritation, dry skin, or another cause that needs examination. Heat under bedding can make an existing itch feel stronger, but timing alone does not identify the cause.

Scaling, peeling, cracking or a strong odour between the toes can fit Athlete's Foot. Small deep-seated blisters on the soles or sides of the feet can occur with dyshidrotic eczema. Redness or burning after a new shoe, sock, detergent or foot product can suggest Contact Dermatitis. Dry, tight skin may itch without much visible rash. Scratching can create broken skin and increase the risk of irritation or infection.

Rinse gently with lukewarm water, pat carefully dry, and keep the spaces between the toes dry. Wear loose, breathable socks and change them if damp. Avoid fragranced creams, harsh scrubbing and scratching; a cool compress may calm the urge to scratch. If the pattern resembles a fungal rash, a pharmacist or clinician can advise whether Topical Antifungal Treatment is suitable. Do not share towels or footwear while the cause is unclear.

Arrange medical review if the itch persists, repeatedly wakes you, spreads, or does not improve with sensible skin care. Seek prompt care for increasing warmth, swelling, pus, severe pain, fever, rapidly spreading redness, or cracks that are difficult to keep clean. People with diabetes, reduced circulation or a weakened immune system should seek advice early when foot skin is broken.

Could this be Athlete's Foot, Dyshidrotic Eczema or Contact Dermatitis? Which areas should I treat, and for how long? Should I stop any foot or laundry products? What changes would mean I need an in-person examination?