What is athlete’s foot?
Athlete’s foot is a fungal infection that looks like a scaly rash and typically appears in the space between your toes. The rash may itch, sting, or burn, and it gets the name “athlete’s foot” because it often appears when people have been sweating a lot. The rash is very contagious, and can be spread just by sharing a towel or walking barefoot in the same bathroom.
Athlete’s foot is very common, affecting up to 70% of adults at some point in their lives, and it can be treated, usually with over-the-counter or prescription medication. However, it frequently reoccurs, so the most important part of your treatment is learning repeatable habits that will lower your risk of developing the fungus in the future.
How do I know if I have athlete’s foot?
Athlete’s foot can appear as a red, scaly rash, most often between your toes. Damp socks and shoes are a great place for the fungus to grow, and normally the itching or pain in the affected area is worst when you first remove your shoes.
In more advanced cases, the rash or a patch of chronic dryness may spread up the side of your foot, or blisters and ulcers may begin to appear. Make sure not to scratch or pick at your rash, as it can easily spread to your fingers and hands. If you think you have athlete’s foot, call Dr. Nejat’s office to make an appointment before it spreads further across your foot.
Who is most at risk of athlete’s foot?
Men are more likely to develop athlete’s foot, especially those who spend a lot of time in the gym. People with physically demanding jobs, and anyone who spends a lot of time wearing damp socks or shoes, run the risk of athlete’s foot growing on their feet. If you share a bathroom, or frequently use a shared locker room, you risk exposing yourself to the fungus on the floors and towels.
How is athlete’s foot treated?
Athlete’s foot is treated most often with a simple medication, and there are numerous over-the-counter topical creams available for the condition. For more stubborn cases, Dr. Nejat prescribes a stronger medication.
The most important part of treatment is learning how to avoid reoccurring infections by changing certain habits. Dr. Nejat can explain more during your appointment, but some of the best tips to avoid athlete’s foot include:
- Keep your feet dry by going barefoot whenever possible
- Dry your feet thoroughly, especially between your toes, when you get out of the shower
- Change socks whenever you feel them become damp
- Use longer acrylic blend socks
- Alternate pairs of shoes every day, this will keep them from becoming damp
- Use antifungal powder every day to keep your feet dry and healthy
For more information on how to fight and prevent athlete’s foot, call the Podiatry Institute of Southern California today or make an appointment online.
