What hurts?
Some possible conditions • Skin Conditions – Foot – Dorsal
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Bug Bites -
Eczema -
Rash
Some possible conditions • Skin Conditions – Foot – Dorsal
Suspicion of a bug bite may cause feelings of uneasiness and anxiety. Most bug bites and stings are harmless, but some can be serious and will require immediate medical attention. A bite from a poisonous spider for example could be life-threatening. Most bug bites happen when outdoors but they can also happen in the comfort of home. There are different types of bug bites which can vary depending on geographical location and some may cause systemic illness such as Zika virus and Lyme disease.
Symptoms of bug bites can provide a clue as to the severity of the bite and what type of bug is the culprit. Bed bug bites usually happen when sleeping and occur on exposed areas of the body such as the tops of feet. They will present as multiple red and itchy bumps or welts. If they are severe, they will be swollen and inflamed. Mosquito bites can be singular or multiple itchy and red bites. A bite from a tick will leave a rash that has a red outline with a dot in the middle like a bull’s-eye. It can cause an incurable illness known as Lyme disease. Stings from wasps, hornets and bees are painful and red from the moment they occur and may leave a stinger behind in the skin. Bug bites can cause allergic reactions which range in severity from swelling to a potentially life-threatening state known as anaphylaxis.
Mosquitos, black flies, bed bugs, fleas, spiders, dust mites, ticks, ants, wasps, hornets and bees can all bite or sting. Bugs outside are more prevalent in certain seasons. House spiders, bed bugs and dust mites live in homes all year round. Mosquitos, black flies, ticks, ants, and flying insects live outdoors when the weather is warm. Skin that is exposed or not covered with clothing is more at risk for bites.
Wearing bug repellent and dressing appropriately can help avoid bug bites in the first place. If travelling, be aware of what bugs and insects could pose a risk and what medications or vaccines may be recommended. If bites are sustained while sleeping, check mattress seams for bed bugs and mites. Bug bites typically do not require treatment and will go away fairly quickly. If bothersome, anti-itch topical creams or oral antihistamines can alleviate symptoms of itch and inflammation. Unsure if the bump you see is a bite? Come on in to see our Chiropodist or Footcare Nurse, we’d be happy to have a look. Do seek immediate medical attention if an anaphylactic reaction occurs.
Eczema on the feet is known as dyshidrotic eczema, a type of eczema that causes small blisters on the feet and edges of the fingers and toes. It is also referred to as atopic dermatitis because it can be a sign of allergy. Unlike the tough and thick skin on the bottom of the feet, the skin on the top is thin and delicate. Friction from socks and shoes could worsen symptoms of eczema. Eczema is a long-term skin condition more commonly seen in young adults and can occur as a single flare-up in a person’s life or come and go for years.
Dyshidrotic eczema is a common form of eczema and is also referred to as pompholyx, a Greek derived word meaning “bubble.” This type of eczema only occurs on the hands and feet and usually begins with a painful rash of blisters or vesicles. As the blisters heal, the fluid inside them reabsorbs into the body. The skin will then become red and may start to peel. The top of the foot will likely feel itchy and irritated. Scratching to relieve itchiness can cause breaks in the skin which can lead to infection and significant pain and discomfort.
The cause of dyshidrotic eczema is unknown, but it is more likely to occur in multiple family members, suggesting a genetic link. Eczema is a form of atopic dermatitis because it is frequently triggered by the presence of an allergy. It can also be triggered by stress, heat and humidity, sensitivity to soaps and detergents and various metals such as nickel. The skin on the top of the feet is thin and delicate which makes it more susceptible to irritation and injury. If this skin is particularly dry, it is less resilient to friction and scratching.
It is important to know what triggers or exacerbates eczema. This will help avoid a flare-up. Washing feet daily using a mild and fragrance-free soap keeps the surface of the skin clean. Applying a rich emollient when skin is still slightly moist will ensure the moisture balance of skin is maintained. If eczema is bothersome, it is best to seek the advice of a primary care professional or a medical footcare clinician. A topical corticosteroid may be required to reduce inflammation and increase comfort. If the skin is scratched, there is a risk for a fungal or bacterial infection. Infections may need to be treated with topical or even oral antimicrobials to prevent spread and further complications.
A rash on the top of the foot usually presents as red or brown and can be attributed to various causes including an allergic reaction, psoriasis, eczema, fungus and diabetes. A rash on the top of the foot can also be a result of an infection called cellulitis. Cellulitis is a bacterial skin infection that can easily spread if not addressed immediately. Rashes on the top of feet may cause pain and discomfort.
A rash on the top of the feet may be scaly, red, brown, appear dry, have raised bumps, appear as spots or be more diffuse, covering a large area. Depending on the cause, it may be itchy, burn, feel sore, be swollen or inflamed and can feel hot or warm to the touch. Allergic reactions such as contact dermatitis, eczema and fungal infections are likely to be itchy. The skin on the top of the foot is thin and more fragile than other parts of the foot. Scratching a rash can cause a break in the skin which could become infected.
Rashes caused by an allergy are commonly caused by a substance, medication, detergent, metal or fabric coming into contact with the skin. Eczema and psoriasis are skin conditions that may be passed down from a family member and can be exacerbated by allergens or injury such as friction. Fungal infections are common on the feet due to the warm, dark and moist environment of socks and shoes. Having diabetes can change blood vessels and can lead to issues with the skin, such as a rash.
Treatment depends on the cause and therefore it is important to know what has caused the rash in the first place. Washing feet daily using a mild, fragrance-free soap, will lessen risk of skin irritation and keep the surface of the skin clean. Applying moisturiser will help ease dry skin and irritation. Anti-inflammatory creams, such as hydrocortisone treat itch and inflammation, which is important for symptom management. If a rash is due to an infection it is imperative to know what kind. Topical antifungals and antibacterials are effective if used as directed and for the right reason. If a rash is persistent or worsens, always seek the advice of a primary care professional or medical footcare clinician to avoid complications.
