Athlete’s foot is caused by a fungus invading the superficial layer of the skin. Fungi love a warm, moist places. As a result, they are commonly found on athletes or other individuals with sweaty feet. Athlete’s foot appears as an itchy rash with scales on the feet (especially in between the toes).
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About Athlete’s Foot
Athlete’s foot is contagious, so it can be passed either by direct skin-to-skin contact or through towels, shoes, floors, and such. Because of their infectious nature and their affinity for warm moist places, treatment does involve some life style changes for most patients.
Signs And Symptoms Of Athlete’s Foot
Signs and symptoms of athlete’s foot include a scaly rash that usually causes itching, stinging and burning. It typically begins between your toes. Athlete’s foot is contagious and can be spread via contaminated floors, towels or clothing.
Keep in mind that the infection can spread to your hands if you pick at the skin or scratch at the infected parts of your feet.
How To Prevent Athlete’s Foot
To help keep the fungus away, it is important to:
- Use foot powder.
- Use a separate towel to dry your feet.
- Keep your feet clean and dry, especially between your toes.
- Avoid synthetic materials inside shoes such as vinyl or rubber.
- Switch to cotton socks (they are great at absorbing moisture).
- Change your socks regularly (twice a day is best).
- Rotate your shoes to give them time to dry after use.
- Don’t go barefoot in public! Wear sandals in public showers or locker rooms.
Treatment Options For Athlete’s Foot
The medical treatment for Athlete’s Foot is based on the degree severity and can involve creams or oral medicines. In order to determine the best treatment for you, the first step is a clinical evaluation.
Please contact us to schedule your next appointment with Dr. Kormeili.