Athlete's Foot

What causes athlete’s foot?

Athlete’s foot, or tinea pedis, is a fungal infection. The fungi that most often cause athlete’s foot are normally found on human skin and usually don’t cause problems when your skin is dry and clean.

The fungi only thrive and reproduce when they’re in a warm, moist environment, like the inside of your shoes. You can pick up the fungus from any contaminated surface, but it’s often spread in locker rooms, public showers, and on the deck around swimming pools.

What symptoms develop due to athlete’s foot?

Athlete’s foot most commonly appears between your toes, where you may experience:

• Dry, scaly, itchy skin
• White, thickened skin
• Redness and inflammation
• Blisters or an ulcer
• Itching that’s worse when you remove your shoes

An untreated fungal infection often spreads to the sole of your foot, but it may also affect your toenails or the sides of your foot.

Don’t forget to wash your hands after touching a fungal infection. You can spread it by touching another part of your body with contaminated hands.

How can I prevent athlete’s foot?

Since sweaty feet increase your risk for athlete’s foot, you’re more susceptible in warm weather and if you wear heavy safety shoes or rubber boots. You can lower your risk by following these guidelines:

• Don’t walk barefoot around pools or in locker rooms
• Wear well-ventilated shoes
• Don’t share towels, shoes, or socks
• Wear cotton socks that absorb sweat
• Wash your feet every day and dry them completely

If you sweat heavily, it also helps to have at least two pairs of shoes so you don’t wear the same pair two days in a row. When you alternate shoes each day, it gives each pair time to thoroughly dry.

How is athlete’s foot treated?

Athlete’s foot seldom goes away without treatment. If your infection is mild, your doctor at Arlington/Mansfield Foot & Ankle Centers may recommend an over-the-counter antifungal ointment, spray, or powder. Many cases of athlete’s foot, however, need prescription-strength medications, which may include a topical or oral antifungal medication.

If you have diabetes or a weakened immune system, expert treatment by your doctor at Arlington/Mansfield Foot & Ankle Centers can help prevent complications like infections.

Don’t suffer any longer with the intense itching and burning of athlete’s foot. Schedule an appointment online or call Arlington/Mansfield Foot & Ankle today.