Discovering a rash on your body can be very disconcerting, and if the rash is on your feet—very uncomfortable. Socks and shoes irritate the bumps and spots that sometimes accompany these skin issues. There are several possible causes of foot rashes, and determining the cause will point you to the best solution.

It’s almost cliché, but worth asking—have you changed your detergent? Perfumes and dyes can sometimes cause an allergic reaction on the feet called contact dermatitis. Other allergens include poison ivy, latex, and even some fabrics. Common symptoms would include itching and burning.

Another itchy foot condition that can present as a rash is athlete’s foot.  With this fungal infection, you may experience small blisters and peeling skin.  Be cautious, because this common foot condition is highly contagious. You may have contracted it by going barefoot at the pool, or in the locker room. Over-the-counter medications are available, but often prescription treatment from your podiatrist is the most effective option.

Bacteria can enter the body through cracks or cuts in the feet, and cause infections such as Cellulitis. If you notice a swollen, red area that feels warm, you should contact your doctor right away. This condition may start at the skin level, but it can spread quickly and even become life threatening. If acted on in timely manner, antibiotics will be prescribed, and your symptoms should resolve in a few days.

Rashes on your feet are a communication from your body; something is amiss. Let us help you determine the cause, and find the relief that you and your feet deserve. Call our Hillsboro office at (503) 648-1713, our Newberg office at (503) 538-0466 or our Beaverton office at (503) 292-9252. You can also schedule an appointment online.

K.G. Gauntt, DPM