Feet Cracking, Peeling and Itchy? It May Be Foot Fungus

When your feet peel, burn, itch and begin to crack, it can sometimes be very painful. When you're away from home, or on the go and your feet feel like this, it could be agony until you can finally get home to soak your feet. This painful itching and burning may be caused by foot fungus. Foot fungus can be picked up from outside elements, or it can be picked up from your own feet being too moist all of the time. If you have a foot fungus issue, read on for further information about this issue.

What Are Other Signs of Foot Fungus?

Foot fungus may at first present as an itchiness on your feet, especially in the area between the toes. When you itch the area, it may become red, inflamed, and painful. Over time, if you don't treat it, it can begin to peel or even crack your skin, not just between the toes, but all over. Your nails can also become thick and difficult to clip with nail clippers.

How Do You Get Foot Fungus?

You can get foot fungus from going barefoot in public places, or using public facilities such as shower houses, bathrooms, pools, and hot tubs. You can also get it from being at the beach barefoot, or simply by wearing open-toed shoes in public places. If your feet aren't being protected, you can pick up a fungus from anywhere. You can also give yourself a foot fungus from having sweaty feet, wearing shoes without socks, and from not cleaning your feet properly or drying them before putting on socks. Fungus will breed in a moist environment, so if you have moist feet, it is likely to grow. 

How Do You Get Rid of Foot Fungus?

Foot fungus can be treated using an anti-fungal cream such as Lotrimin, or something similar. You can use it in a cream form or a foot spray to kill the fungus. You need to be sure you are cleaning your feet properly, especially in-between the toes, and make sure you are drying your feet after you shower/bathe, or whenever your feet get wet, such as after swimming. Skip wearing open-toed shoes for awhile, and protect your feet as much as possible when out in public by covering your feet. If your feet tend to sweat a lot, wear socks that are breathable and lightweight.

If your feet are peeling, cracking, itchy or burning, it may be a fungal issue. If your foot fungus returns and you aren't able to get rid of it on your own, make an appointment with a foot doctor office for help.