It can be pretty alarming to see patches of skin that are red, inflamed, itchy, thickened, peeling, discolored or scaly. If you notice symptoms like these on you feet, then you may be suffering from one of these three conditions that we often treat at Montgomery Foot Care Specialists in Montgomery, AL:
- Athletes Foot
Despite its name, athlete’s foot can affect anyone, not just people who participate in sports. You might first notice redness on the skin between your toes that burns or feels itchy. Patches of red skin may pop up on the sides or soles of your feet. Soon, the patches of red become scaly and begin to peel off.
Athlete’s foot can become really hard to get rid of. A simple rash can turn into painful cracks and blisters that are susceptible to infection, so make sure to treat it right away. Over-the-counter medications are available, but if home treatments don’t work, make an appointment with one of our experienced podiatrists for professional evaluation and treatment.
- Psoriasis
Whereas athlete’s foot is caused by a fungal infection, psoriasis is a bit of a mystery. It’s thought to originate in a problem with the immune system that causes layers of new skin to grow and come to the surface too quickly. The skin becomes thick and scaly. It’s itchy and sometimes painful. Risk factors for psoriasis include a family history, obesity, smoking, and a viral infection.
Psoriasis can affect your toenails as well as the skin of your feet. See a doctor if your nails are discolored, pitted, or seem loose. Treatment for psoriasis includes topical creams, light therapy, and oral or injected medications, as well as avoiding stress and sunlight.
- Eczema
Eczema can look a lot like psoriasis, but there are important differences. Eczema is more common in babies and children and in people who tend to have dry, sensitive skin. Patches of scaly, red skin are usually the sign of an allergic reaction to certain foods, soaps, or environmental factors like dust and pollen.
It may be difficult for you to figure out the reason for your itchy, peeling feet on your own. Residents of the tri-county area are encouraged to visit Michael L. Rosenberg, DPM or Heidi M. Christie, DPM the skilled doctors at our podiatry office in Montgomery. We’ll work with you to get to the bottom of that rash and get your feet back to full health. Call us at (334) 396-3668 or make an appointment here.