Athlete’s Foot: Recognizing and Treating Fungal Infections

Athlete’s foot is a common fungal infection that affects the skin on the feet, particularly between the toes. It’s a condition that can cause discomfort and inconvenience, but with proper recognition and treatment, it can be effectively managed. It’s important that you’re able to recognize when you’re dealing with athlete’s foot so that you can get the care that you need before the infection becomes more difficult to treat.

Dealing With Athlete’s Foot

Athlete’s foot is a contagious fungal infection caused by various types of fungi. These fungi thrive in warm, moist environments, making the feet an ideal breeding ground. Athlete’s foot can spread through direct contact with infected surfaces, such as floors, towels, or shoes, as well as through contact with infected individuals. It’s important that you take steps in your daily life to protect your feet and avoid athlete’s foot from occurring.

Signs of athlete’s foot can include:

• Itching or burning between the toes or soles of the feet
• Redness, inflammation, or peeling skin
• Cracking or blistering
• Foul odor from the feet

It’s important that you keep your feet clean and dry. You should wash your feet daily with soap and water, and dry them thoroughly, paying particular attention to the areas between the toes. Avoid wearing damp socks or shoes and opt for moisture-wicking socks and breathable footwear to keep your feet dry.

To prevent the spread of athlete’s foot, avoid sharing towels, socks, shoes, or other personal items with others, especially if they have a known fungal infection. Keep your feet covered in public places such as locker rooms, swimming pools, and communal showers, and wear flip-flops or shower shoes to reduce the risk of exposure.

If you are dealing with athlete’s foot, you may need a topical ointment to eliminate the fungus and leave you with clean feet again!

Contact Our Podiatrist

Find out how you can get rid of athlete’s foot. Make sure you contact your podiatrist to learn more about athlete’s foot today.