Itchy Palms and Soles

In some traditions it is believed that itchy palm is sign of forthcoming money. One will certainly be happy to tolerate the itchiness if it is related to good fortune, but if the itchiness occurs every day and not only on palms but also on the feet, and brings nothing but irritation with it, then it becomes intolerable and needs to be treated to avoid any complications. Generally there are no complications related to itchy palms and soles, but if there are any underlying reasons for the itchiness, it can create problems.

Causes of Itchy Palms and Soles

Itching is defined as "an irritating cutaneous sensation that produces a desire to scratch".

Allergies
Allergy is one of the major reasons for itchy soles and feet and is caused because of reactions to soap or detergents, cosmetics and substances like rubber and nickel. Some people are allergic to garlic or a few other vegetables, while some are allergic to medicines such as penicillin. Contact dermatitis is a condition where allergies flare up when one comes in contact with a specific substance, like, many people are allergic to paints, fiber glass and solvents.

Athlete's Foot
Athlete's foot is a condition wherein a severe itching of feet occurs. It is a fungal infection, and as the name suggests, occurs only in the feet. But if the person having low immunity touches the foot again and again, and no hygiene is maintained, the infection can spread to the hands also.

Dry Skin
The obvious reason of itchy hands and soles is the dry skin. Old people mostly face with the problem of dry skin. There are several other reasons also, but the most common reason is lack of moisture. Lack of moisture is mainly seen in the winter season, and that's why, most of the people experience this condition then.

Vitamin Deficiency
Vitamins are needed by the body for energy. Deficiency of certain vitamins can causes a number of diseases. Itchy palms and soles can also be caused because of vitamin deficiency. The lack of Vitamin B12, B1 and B6 can cause it . Along with itching, burning of the skin is also experienced.

Psoriasis
Psoriasis is a chronic skin disease which is caused by too fast growth of skin cells, caused by the immune system. It is a very irritating disease which can be very difficult to the deal with. This disease causes extreme itching and is also associated with pain. Psoriasis can also be a reason for the itchiness of palms and soles.

Treatment

Treatment for palms and soles depends on the cause. So the first step is to find out what the cause is. But general treatments like keeping the hand and feet clean and moisturizing them daily can be done. If the cause is an allergy, it is advisable to stay away from the allergen. If complete avoidance is not possible, you can take precautions like covering the hands and feet with gloves and socks. Applying certain lotions like hydrocortisone can relieve itching.

Do follow all the remedies given to cure yourself of this irritating condition. Next time, if your palms itch for a long time, do not start dreaming of money, just rush to a dermatologist!