Diabetic Itching Feet: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment, and Prevention

Explore why diabetes leads to itchy feet, symptoms to watch for, treatment options, prevention strategies, and when to seek medical advice.

By Sneha Tete, Integrated MA, Certified Relationship Coach

Created on Sep 26, 2025

Explore why diabetes leads to itchy feet, symptoms to watch for, treatment options, prevention strategies, and when to seek medical advice.

Diabetic Itching Feet: What to Know

Diabetes is known for its impact on blood sugar, but less discussed is its effect on the skin, frequently causing itchy feet. This discomfort can be both distressing and persistent for many individuals living with diabetes. Understanding the underlying causes, effective treatments, and prevention strategies is essential for maintaining foot health and quality of life.

What Causes Itchy Feet in Diabetes?

People with diabetes are more vulnerable to skin changes, particularly itching (pruritus). Several mechanisms connect diabetes to itchy feet:

Neuropathy: Diabetes can damage nerve fibers (diabetic neuropathy), especially in the feet and hands, leading to sensations like tingling, numbness, and itching.
Poor Circulation: High blood glucose levels may block or damage blood vessels, reducing blood flow to extremities, often causing dryness and itchiness of the skin.
Dry Skin: Diabetic individuals tend to have drier skin due to dehydration and reduced sweat gland function, particularly on the lower legs and feet.
Inflammatory Response: Chronic high glucose increases inflammatory chemicals (cytokines) in the body, which can stimulate itch nerves even before nerve damage occurs.
Reactions to Medication: Some diabetes medications may have itchy skin as a side effect or cause an allergic reaction. Never stop medications without consulting a doctor.

Other possible causes include exposure to irritants in detergents or soaps, seasonal dryness, and underlying skin conditions or infections.

Common Underlying Skin Conditions

Fungal Infections: Candida or athlete’s foot (a fungal infection) cause red, itchy, flaky, and sometimes blistered skin—especially between the toes.
Necrobiosis Lipoidica Diabeticorum (NLD): A rare condition causing red, raised spots that develop into scar-like lesions with dark borders. They often itch and may become painful.
Eruptive Xanthomatosis: Most common in type 1 diabetes, characterized by yellow, itchy bumps with red halos, often found on feet, legs, hands, arms, and buttocks. Associated with high blood lipids.

Symptoms Associated with Itchy Diabetic Feet

Itchy feet caused by diabetes can present with or without physical skin changes. Not all symptoms signify infection, but persistent or worsening signs should prompt medical attention.

Intense urge to scratch
Dry, cracked, or scaly skin
Blisters or open sores
Redness and inflammation
Rash or white spots
Swelling
Numbness or tingling (a sign of neuropathy)

Some individuals may have itchy feet with no noticeable skin changes. However, even in the absence of obvious lesions, underlying nerve or circulatory issues may be present.

Risk Factors and Complications

If left unaddressed, diabetic skin problems can lead to more serious issues:

Infection: Scratching breaks the skin, providing entry points for bacteria and fungi.
Delayed Healing: Diabetes impairs the body’s ability to heal wounds, raising the risk of chronic ulcers.
Cellulitis: Skin infections that can become severe if untreated.
Worsening Neuropathy: Persistent itching can indicate progressive nerve damage.

When to Seek Medical Advice

Consult a healthcare professional promptly if:

Itching is severe, persistent, or worsening
There are signs of infection: pus, warmth, swelling, or increased redness
Open sores, ulcers, or blisters develop
Loss of sensation or numbness increases

Early evaluation may include a physical exam and, if necessary, diagnostic tests (e.g., skin scraping, cultures, biopsy, or blood work) to confirm the underlying cause and guide treatment.

Treatment Options for Itchy Diabetic Feet

Treatment depends on the underlying cause. Addressing blood sugar control, skin conditions, and infections is key:

Blood Sugar Regulation: Stable glucose levels help prevent and manage neuropathy, dry skin, and fungal infections.
Antifungal Treatments: Topical or oral medications (creams, sprays) may be prescribed for fungal infections like athlete’s foot.
Antihistamines: Diphenhydramine (Benadryl) and other H1-blockers can relieve generalized itchiness, but may cause drowsiness; consult a physician before use, especially in older adults.
Topical Steroids: Corticosteroid creams are sometimes recommended for inflammatory skin reactions, but long-term use should be supervised.
Emollients and Moisturizers: Thick, fragrance-free creams or ointments (such as petrolatum) help restore skin moisture after washing and throughout the day.
Prescription Medications: For severe itching, doctors may consider SSRIs, gabapentin, or tricyclic antidepressants in select cases.

People should not discontinue any prescribed medication without checking with their doctor. If an allergic reaction is suspected, get professional advice before stopping or switching medicines.

Home Care and Preventive Strategies

Daily foot care is especially important for people with diabetes to avoid complications:

Inspect Feet Daily: Check for cuts, sores, blisters, swelling, or color changes.
Moisturize Regularly: Apply a thick, gentle moisturizer after bathing and before bed. Avoid applying between toes to reduce fungal risk.
Gentle Bathing Habits: Use warm—not hot—water and a mild, fragrance-free cleanser to protect sensitive skin.
Dry Thoroughly: Carefully dry feet after washing, especially between the toes.
Wear Clean, Breathable Socks: Cotton or moisture-wicking socks help keep feet dry and reduce fungal risk.
Choose Proper Footwear: Well-fitting shoes prevent friction and pressure sores.
Treat Cuts and Blisters Quickly: Clean minor wounds and monitor for signs of infection.
Use a Humidifier: In dry environments or winter, a humidifier helps maintain skin moisture.

Lifestyle Tips for Managing and Preventing Itchy Feet

Maintain Blood Sugar Targets: Keeping glucose in the recommended range is critical for nerve and skin health.
Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water daily to keep skin hydrated internally.
Avoid Irritants: Use fragrance-free, dye-free soaps and detergents. Opt for gentle, hypoallergenic skin care products.
Monitor for Skin Changes: Promptly address new rashes, patches, or wounds.

Table: Common Skin Conditions in Diabetes

Condition	Symptoms	Common Locations
Fungal Infections (e.g., Athlete’s Foot)	Red, itchy skin; blisters; cracking; peeling	Between toes, feet
Necrobiosis Lipoidica Diabeticorum (NLD)	Red, raised patches; scar-like lesions; itching or pain	Shins, lower legs
Eruptive Xanthomatosis	Yellow, pea-sized bumps with red halos; itchiness	Feet, legs, hands, arms, buttocks
Dry Skin	Flaky, cracked, or rough patches; itching	Legs, feet, arms

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Is itching of the feet a serious symptom in diabetes?

Itching can be an early sign of skin complications or neuropathy in diabetes. While often not dangerous, persistent or worsening symptoms should be checked by a healthcare provider to rule out infection or other serious problems.

Q: How can I tell if my itchy feet are due to diabetes or something else?

If you have diabetes and notice itchy feet, especially combined with dryness, numbness, or other foot changes, it is likely related to diabetes. However, other causes like allergic reactions or fungal infections can also play a role. A doctor can help determine the exact cause.

Q: Are over-the-counter treatments for athlete’s foot safe for diabetics?

Antifungal creams and sprays can be safe for mild infections, but individuals with diabetes should watch closely for signs of worsening infection and consult their physician before starting any new treatment, especially if they have nerve damage.

Q: How often should a diabetic have their feet checked?

Daily self-inspection is recommended. Additionally, people with diabetes should have their feet professionally examined at least once a year or more frequently if they have existing foot complications.

Q: Will controlling my blood sugar help with itchy feet?

Yes. Maintaining target blood glucose levels can reduce the risk or progression of nerve damage and skin complications, easing symptoms like itchiness over time.

Key Takeaways for Diabetic Foot Health

Itchy feet can be a sign of diabetes-related complications like neuropathy or skin infections.
Early intervention, consistent skin care, and optimal blood sugar management are crucial in preventing severe foot problems.
Consult a healthcare professional for persistent, worsening, or unfamiliar symptoms.
Good daily foot hygiene and prompt treatment of minor cuts or rashes can prevent escalation into serious infections.

With attentive care, most cases of diabetic itchy feet can be managed effectively and further complications prevented.

References

Author

Sneha TeteBeauty & Lifestyle Writer

Sneha is a relationships and lifestyle writer with a strong foundation in applied linguistics and certified training in relationship coaching. She brings over five years of writing experience to thebridalbox, crafting thoughtful, research-driven content that empowers readers to build healthier relationships, boost emotional well-being, and embrace holistic living.

Read full bio of Sneha Tete