What Causes Athlete’s Foot?
If you experience a fungus that affects your feet, you may have what is referred to as Athlete’s foot. Common symptoms of this condition may include itching, blistering, or cracked skin.
Athlete’s Foot: The Sole Story
Athlete’s foot, also known as tinea pedis, can be an extremely contagious foot infection. It is commonly contracted in public changing areas and bathrooms, dormitory style living quarters, around locker rooms and public swimming pools, or anywhere your feet often come into contact with other people.
The fungus typically thrives in moist environments, and may live on shower room floors or in public pools. Athlete’s foot can easily spread, and it’s recommended that shower shoes are worn to possibly prevent this fungus from entering the skin. Additional preventive measures may include washing the feet and drying thoroughly between the toes, using a powder to absorb excessive moisture, and avoiding wearing shoes that fit incorrectly. If you have athlete’s foot, please consult with a podiatrist for additional information about prevention and treatment options.
How to Combat Athlete’s Foot
- Hydrate your feet by using lotion
- Exfoliate
- Buff off nails
- Use of anti-fungal products
- Examine your feet and visit your if any suspicious blisters or cuts develop
Athlete’s foot can cause many irritating symptoms such as dry and flaking skin, itching, and redness. Some more severe symptoms can include bleeding and cracked skin, intense itching and burning, and even pain when walking. In the worst cases, Athlete’s foot can cause blistering as well. Speak to your podiatrist for a better understanding of the different causes of Athlete’s foot, as well as help in determining which treatment options are best for you.
Contact a Podiatrist
Athlete’s foot is an inconvenient condition that can be easily reduced with the proper treatment. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Dr. Spencer Hardy from Red Mountain Footcare. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs. Feel free to visit our office located in Mesa, AZ. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.