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Overview
Common after barefoot beach walks.
Treatable.
When to get medical care
Call 911Not an emergency.
Get care todayNot usually urgent.
See a doctor soonMoving red line.
Causes
Caused by animal hookworm larvae.
OwieClear has pages on 1 condition that can cause winding, itchy red line that moves under the skin. Each shows how soon to get care.
Common causes
- Creeping eruption (hookworm larvae in the skin)See a doctor if it doesn't get better
A very itchy, winding red line that slowly moves under the skin, usually on the feet or buttocks.
What you can do at home
- Avoid scratching.
Medicines
Antiparasitic medicine.
At the doctor
Diagnosed by exam.
Questions you may be asked
- Travel
The exam
A skin exam.
Tests
- None
Prevention
Wear shoes.
- Avoid barefoot on sand
Check your symptoms
Most symptoms have more than one possible cause. The symptom checker looks at all of your symptoms together, plus your age, and shows how soon to get care.
Sources
Last updated 2026-11-13.