What is athlete’s foot?
Athlete’s foot, also called tinea pedis, is a contagious fungal infection. When the infection affects the skin on your foot, it’s called athlete’s foot. The infection may spread to the skin beneath your nails and cause toenail fungus.
Although athlete’s foot usually isn’t serious, this condition can be difficult to treat. If you’ve had an itchy rash on your foot for more than two weeks, or if your condition doesn’t improve with over-the-counter treatment, the team at Ankle & Foot Associates, LLC, can help. You should call right away if you have diabetes and notice any changes in your feet.
What are the symptoms of athlete’s foot?
Athlete’s foot usually causes a red, scaly rash that begins between your toes and may spread to other parts of your foot. The rash may cause itching or a burning sensation that’s usually worse right after you remove your shoes and socks.
Some types of athlete’s foot cause blisters or dry skin on the soles and sides of your feet. If the infection spreads to your toenails, you may develop signs of toenail fungus like discolored, thick, and crumbly nails.
How do you get athlete’s foot?
This condition commonly affects athletes, but anyone can get athlete’s foot. Fungi thrive in warm, damp, and dark places like the inside of a sweaty shoe or a gym locker room. Certain factors may increase your risk of getting athlete’s foot, such as:
- Wearing damp socks and tight-fitting shoes
- Walking barefoot in public areas like a communal swimming pool
- Sharing towels, socks, or shoes with a person who has athlete’s foot
- Having a minor skin or nail injury on your foot
Because athlete’s foot is contagious, you should avoid walking barefoot to reduce the spread of the fungus.
How is athlete’s foot diagnosed and treated?
Your provider at Ankle & Foot Associates, LLC, may be able to diagnose athlete’s foot based on a physical exam alone. They may take a skin sample for laboratory testing to determine the type of fungus causing your infection. Then they recommend the best treatment plan for your specific needs.
Treatment for athlete’s foot may include:
- Changing footwear
- Using antifungal spray or cream
- Keeping your feet clean and dry
Scratching the rash can spread the infection, but you can soothe itchy feet with a soak in cool water. Be sure to dry them thoroughly afterward.
For effective athlete’s foot treatment, call Ankle & Foot Associates, LLC, or book an appointment online today.
