Isn’t there a strange pleasure in scratching an itchy area on your body? While the itch may simply be a result of dry skin, a rash in the area can indicate a serious problem.
Do you notice swelling or rashes on your ankles due to the constant scratching? Itchy skin is quite irritating, especially if it on the ankles. Itchy ankles can either be a reaction to an allergen or an injury caused to the area. The itch is sometimes so severe that it can affect your daily activities.
What Causes Itchy Ankles?
Ankle itch may be experienced in one or both ankles. Weather conditions, skin irritants, and poor hygiene can be blamed for the development of itchy ankles, which may occur with or without a rash.1
Causes Of Itchy Ankles With A Rash
- Athlete’s foot
- Crohn’s disease
- Scabies
- Allergies
- Eczema
Causes Of Itchy Ankles Without A Rash
- Dry skin
- Hypothyroidism
- Intestinal parasites
- Psoriasis
- Ankle surgery
- Varicose veins
- Cleansing products containing sulfur
- Tight socks or shoes
Consult your doctor at the earliest if you feel that the itch is not due to dry skin. They can rightly diagnose the cause of the itch and also help you rule out the risk of a health problem. Getting medical help can help you treat the root of the problem at an early stage.
Treatment For Itchy Ankles
Doctors usually prescribe antihistamines, anti-itch creams, anti-fungal creams, anti-microbial solutions or corticosteroids, based on the cause of itching. However, there are several natural remedies that can soothe your skin and reduce the itching.
- Aloe vera: Its natural anti-inflammatory properties help to reduce the swelling, redness, and irritation of the skin. It also has healing properties and can moisturize your skin.2 Gather the gel of an aloe vera leaf by slitting it lengthwise. Apply the fresh aloe vera gel to your ankle and leave it on for a few minutes.
- Cold compress: Applying ice is the best way to soothe the area and prevent itching. Ice temporarily numbs the area, thereby reducing the itching sensation and prevent any further damage to your skin. Place an ice pack on the affected area for about 20 minutes for an instant relief. Repeat this every time your skin feels itchy.
- Moisturizing Lotion: Applying moisturizing lotion to the itchy ankle can prevent dryness or cracking of the skin, which may be causing the itching.
- Mint: Mint leaves have anti-inflammatory and soothing properties which make it ideal for itchy ankles. It’s cooling effect on the skin can relieve skin irritation caused due to mosquito bites and other allergens. Apply mint leaves directly to your skin by crushing them to reduce the redness and swelling.
- Baking soda: One of the most popular and beneficial ingredients, baking soda is also known to soothe an insect bite and reduce skin rashes. Mix a teaspoon of baking soda with some water. Rub this paste on your skin when you experience rashes on your ankles.
Although resisting the urge to itch can be difficult, it is necessary to prevent damage to the skin and increase the risk of infections. To prevent itching, ensure that you maintain good hygiene by washing your feet regularly, keeping them dry and moisturized, and using mild skin-care products.
It is also important to wear socks and shoes that fit you well, to maintain good circulation in your feet. Preventing insect bites is not only important to keep itching ankles away but also protect you from diseases caused by the insects.
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