People with Type 2 diabetes may experience excessive itching in their feet due to several possible causes, according to medical experts at UCLA Health. In response to a patient inquiry about persistent foot itchiness and the possibility of neuropathy, doctors explained that diabetes can lead to elevated blood sugar levels, which over time can damage various parts of the body, including nerves.
“Over time, persistently elevated blood sugar begins to take a toll on the body. This can include damage to the kidneys, heart, eyes, nerves and extremities. One common result of this damage is the onset of unusual sensations, particularly in the feet. Known as peripheral neuropathy, it often causes tingling, stinging or burning. While less common, the persistent itchiness that you have described is also possible. And as you have surmised, it can also be a form of neuropathy,” stated UCLA Health doctors.
They noted that standard nerve conduction studies usually assess larger nerve fibers but may not detect issues with smaller sensory fibers responsible for pain and itch sensations. “It is the smaller sensory fibers that transmit pain and itch. These may not show up clearly on routine testing. As a result, even when nerve studies appear normal, the finer nerves can play a role in the symptoms,” they added.
The doctors emphasized that neuropathy is not the only cause of itchy feet in people with Type 2 diabetes. High blood sugar can disrupt skin repair mechanisms and reduce moisture retention in the skin, leading to chronic dryness and itching. Additionally, nerve damage from diabetes can affect sweating and make skin drier and more prone to irritation.
Foot care recommendations include using gentle cleansers for washing feet and applying hypoallergenic and fragrance-free lotions to keep skin moist. Choosing socks made from soft materials and supportive shoes without pressure points was also advised.
Doctors warned that reduced immune function in diabetes increases susceptibility to fungal infections like athlete’s foot—a potential source of intense itching.
They concluded by stating: “While vigilant foot care can lead to a reduction in itching, the most important thing you can do is work on improved blood sugar control. That includes using any medications prescribed by your doctor, eating a nutritionally balanced low-glycemic diet and getting regular exercise. And if you haven’t talked to your doctor yet about this itch, we urge you to do so. They can prescribe topical treatments and, if needed, certain oral medications. These can help manage the itch and improve your quality of life.”
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