Everything You Need to Know About Athletes Foot
Athlete's foot, or tinea pedis, causes a fungus infection that makes your feet itchy, red, and dry. The infection is caused by dermatophytes, microscopic fungi that grow in warm, moist areas of the body such as under your nails and between your toes.
Athletes foot is a highly contagious fungal infection that can appear on feet, as well as in areas like the armpits and groin. The most common carriers are adults, but athlete's foot can also be transmitted to children by contact with others who are infected and by sharing clothes, mats, or rugs. It's best to be mindful of your feet at all times, so it's vital that you keep them clean. Put on flip-flops or sandals when you are walking around your home, especially in a public space like the gym or locker room, so you don't catch any unwanted bacteria or pests.
Your podiatrist should be able to diagnose athletes foot by just looking at your foot, but they may want to do some testing. They can do this by taking a sample of the fungi on your skin with a cotton swab. They may also prescribe an antifungal cream or lotion to use for 1-3 months. It's best to keep using the antifungal cream even after the infection has visibly disappeared; this will ensure that the infection is fully removed and less likely to come back.
What Is Athlete's Foot?
Athletes foot is caused by a type of fungus that affects the feet and toes. It can also infect other body parts, but it generally thrives in warm, moist places. The infection is spread by contact with surfaces, floors, or socks that has come into contact with the infection. Nobody wants to get athletes foot because it's inconvenient to have, and it can make your feet feel uncomfortable or painful. One way to prevent this is to regularly disinfect your shoes and ensure you always wear shoes or flip flops in public spaces.
Prevention
Some of the most effective methods to prevent athletes foot include:
Ensure you thoroughly wash and dry your feet regularly, especially between the toes and around the nail beds.
Wear shoes or something to cover your feet in public spaces.
Keep your feet dry and wash them thoroughly if you go barefoot in public spaces like gyms and pools.
Change your socks regularly, ensuring you put on a clean pair. Change your socks at least once daily, especially if your feet are sweating a lot. we recommend the use of moisture wicking socks.
Symptoms
Athletes foot is a common infection that can lead to serious scratching, itching, and burning sensations. The infection usually starts as the soles of the feet become red with white edges between the toes. If untreated, this infection can spread to other parts of the feet and body.
Diagnosis and Treatment
If you think you have athletes foot, the first step is to schedule an appointment with a podiatrist. The podiatrist will take skin samples and send them to a laboratory to test for fungus if necessary; however, in most cases, a podiatrist can diagnose athletes foot on sight. The podiatrist will prescribe oral or topical antifungal medications that are best suited for your type of fungus.
The expert diagnosis, treatment and prevention of athlete's foot are just a few of the many services podiatrists offer. They also present treatment options for toenail fungus, other foot-related conditions, and nail abnormalities. Feel free to contact us today to see how we can help you.
*This blog contains general information about medical conditions and is not advice. You must not rely upon the information in this blog as medical advice. Medical advice should always be sought from an appropriately qualified podiatrist such as ourselves.