Itchy feet are usually caused by a skin condition, fungal infection or underlying condition such as psoriasis, athlete's foot or eczema, according to podiatrist Dr. Matthew Garoufalis with FootVitals. More itching typically occurs at night because of decreased adrenaline and cortisone in the body.
Itching in the feet may also be caused by a foot rash; sweaty feet; allergies; or irritants to perfume, soap, laundry detergent, or shoe and sock material, explains Dr. Garoufalis. Insect, flea and tick bites; hives; poison ivy; hookworm; or hormonal changes in the body may cause itching. Poor hygiene may also be a factor with itching feet at night. Bacteria present on the skin in the more than 250,000 sweat glands on the feet begin to grow when the feet are not bathed often and properly, which causes sweat, odor and itching. Environmental conditions, such as walking barefoot in damp soil or grass, may also cause itchy feet at night.
Inflamed skin on the feet, typical with conditions such as eczema and psoriasis, causes itching feet, notes WebMD. When patches of red skin or puss-filled bumps or soreness in addition to an itching sensation occur on the feet, the patient may suffer from psoriasis. With eczema, the feet become covered in clear blisters; red, cracked skin; and scaly skin that itches.
