Athlete’s Foot

What is athlete’s foot and how to take control of it?

What is Athlete’s Foot?

Athlete’s foot is a common skin infection caused by the dermatophyte fungi which are the ringworm fungi (tinea). The infection can occur anywhere on the body but commonly infects the feet due to the warm, moist and dark environment. Breeding grounds for the fungus include swimming pools, showers, and locker rooms. The infection was common among athletes who use these facilities frequently and so the term “athlete’s foot” became popular. The truth is you do not have to be an athlete to get athlete’s foot, in fact it is estimated that near 70% of the population will be infected with tinea pedis at some time in their lives.

Symptoms of Athlete’s Foot

There are three types of Athlete’s Foot.

Toe web infection

This is the most common type of athlete’s foot and usually occurs between the two smallest toes but can occur between any set of toes or all of them.

This type begins with skin that feels soft and moist and can have some itching and burning involved. It may get worse if not treated and can spread across the foot to other toes and start to move up the foot.

Moccasin-type Infection

A long lasting(chronic) infection. This may begin with minor irritation, dryness, itching and burning but will progress to a thickened, scaling, cracked and peeling skin on the sole of the foot or heel. In some severe cases the toenails become infected and can thicken, crumble and fall off. This type can also appear in the palm of a hand.

Vesicular Infection

This is the least common type of infection and begins with a sudden outbreak of large fluid filled areas under the skin. The blisters often develop on the skin of the instep but can also develop between the toes, on the heel or on the sole of top of the foot. Occasional reoccurrence can happen after the initial infection. The infection may occur in the same area or in another area such as the arms, chest or fingers. Scaly skin may be present between outbreaks.

Possible complications of Athlete’s Foot

The complications of athlete’s foot include the potential, if untreated, to spread to other parts of the body or other people mainly your family members. The fungus may spread to your legs, toenails, hands, fingernails, and essentially any body area.

Infection of bacteria can occur due to the injury of the skin by the fungus. The natural protective barrier is broken and bacteria and yeasts can enter and the broken skin and cause bad smell, or an inflammation known as cellulitis.

How to treat Athlete’s Foot

Treatments can be divided into two parts.

The first step in treatment is to make the infected area less suitable for the athletes foot fungus to grow. This means keeping the area clean and dry with good hygiene. Use cotton socks whenever possible and remove shoes and let the feet breathe.

The second part of treatment is the use of topical antifungal creams and external medications. Treatment should be continued for at least four weeks and performed daily.

Prevention of infections of athlete’s foot

Avoid walking barefoot in public showers, locker rooms, pool decks, etc. Sandals or some form of footwear should be worn at all times.

Do not share footware and avoid rental footwear, such as bowling shoes or roller skates.

If rental equipment is used or any of the conditions mentioned above unavoidable, clean and powder feet as soon as possible after the occurrence.

When to seek medical treatment for athlete’s foot

If the infection is not clearing up and increased swelling and redness or bleeding are present, see your health care practictioner. Bacterial infection may also be occurring which makes it necessary for an antibiotic pill to counteract the infection. If fungal nail is present or you are a diabetic or have a compromised immune system, you should also see your physician for treatment.

Doctors that treat athlete’s foot.

Dermatologists are skin disorder specialists and can treat athlete’s foot. Family medical physicians, pediatricians, podiatrists (foot doctors) and other practitioners may also treat this common infection.

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