Athlete’s Foot
(Diseases)
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What is an Athlete’s Foot (Tinea Pedis)?
Athlete’s foot is a common fungal infection caused by fungi that leads to an itchy skin rash on one or both feet. It most commonly occurs between the toes but can also affect the top, sole, or heel of the foot. The infection may appear between the toes, on the bottom or sides of the feet, and may also present as ulcerative lesions or fluid-filled blisters.
- What are the symptoms of Athlete’s Foot?
- The symptoms include:
- Cracked and peeling skin.
- Itching of the skin.
- Skin Rash.
Burning orfstinging sensation.
Foul odor of the feet.
What causes an athlete’s foot?
Several different types of fungi cause athlete’s foot, and it usually spreads through skin-to-skin contact, contact with skin flakes, or contact with an infected surface.
- How is Athlete’sFoot diagnosed?
The physician will take a medical history, conduct a clinical examination, and observe visible symptoms. Additional tests may be requested if needed, such as:
Skin biopsy to detect fungal cells.
- How is an athlete’s foot treated?
- Treatment may involve several measures depending on the case, and may include:
Antifungal creams, ointments, gels, sprays, or powders.
Prescription antifungal medications.
It is important to complete the full course of treatment. Stopping too early may cause the infection to return and become more difficult to treat.
- How can an athlete’s foot be prevented?
- There are many ways to reduce the risk of contracting or spreading athlete’s foot, including:
- Wash your feet and the skin between your toes thoroughly with antibacterial soap.
- Dry your feet and between your toes after swimming or bathing.
- Apply antifungal powder to your feet to absorb moisture.
- Put on socks before underwear to prevent fungi from spreading to the groin.
- Wear shoes or sandals that allow your feet to breathe.
- Avoid wearing rubber or synthetic shoes for long periods.
- Allow shoes to dry for at least 24 hours between uses.
- Clean shoes with disinfectant sprays or wipes.
- Wear cotton or wool socks that absorb moisture, or moisture-wicking synthetic socks.
Wear sandals or flip-flops in communal locker rooms, pools, saunas, or showers.
Wash socks, towels, and bedding in hot water.
- What are the complications of Athlete’s Foot?
- An athlete’s foot does not usually go away on its own. If left untreated, it can spread to other areas of the body, including:
- Nails: Fungal nail infections are more difficult to treat and often resistant to many treatments.
Hands: Similar fungal infections can spread to the hands, usually when scratching infected feet or using the same towel for both feet and hands.
Legs and groin: The same fungi that cause athlete’s foot can also spread to the legs or groin.
- When should you see a doctor?
- Contact your healthcare provider if you notice:
- No improvement or recovery despite treatment.
Symptoms such as red, purple, gray, or white skin, or irritation and swelling.
The infection spreads to other parts of the body.
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