Struggling with Athlete’s Foot?
It’s not just for athletes! Athlete’s foot is a common fungal infection that can affect anyone, causing discomfort and even secondary infections if left untreated. But don’t worry—it’s preventable and treatable! 💪
In our latest article, we dive into the causes, symptoms, and treatments for athlete’s foot. Learn how to keep your feet healthy, fungus-free, and comfortable! 🙌
Eileen Rivero, DPM ABPM
Kevin Lam, DPM, FACFAS
#AthletesFoot #FootHealth #Podiatry #HealthyFeet #FootCare #Prevention #FootHygiene #FFLC
Athlete’s foot, or tinea pedis, is one of the most common fungal infections affecting the feet. as a podiatrist, I frequently see patients suffering from this condition, which can range from mild itching to severe discomfort and secondary infections. While it’s a prevalent issue, many patients don’t realize how easily it spreads or how vital proper foot care is in preventing and treating it. This fungal infection is not limited to athletes — it can affect anyone, regardless of age or activity level. The warm, most environment inside shoes provides the perfect breeding ground for fungi, making prevention a crucial aspect of foot health. Left untreated, athlete’s foot can progress beyond just the skin, potentially spreading to toenails or even other parts of the body. Understanding the symptoms, causes and treatments is essential for anyone looking to maintain healthy, fungus-free feet. Let’s dive into the causes, symptoms, treatments, and preventative measures to keep your feet healthy and fungus-free.
What Causes Athlete’s Foot?
Athlete’s foot is caused by dermatophytes, a type of fungus that thrives in warm, moist environments. This fungus is highly contagious and can be contracted through direct contact with an infected person or by walking barefoot in communal areas such as locker rooms, public showers, swimming pools, and gym floors. It can also spread from contaminated surfaces, including shoes and socks.
Certain risk factors increase the likelihood of developing athlete’s foot, including:
– Excessive sweating
– Wearing tight, non-breathable shoes
– Poor foot hygiene
– A weakened immune system
– Sharing towels, socks, or shoes with an infected person
– Excessive sweating, wearing tight, non-breathable shoes, poor foot hygiene, a weakened immune system, and sharing towels, socks, or shoes with an infected person.
Recognizing the Symptoms
Athlete’s foot can present itself in several ways. Common symptoms include itching, burning, and stinging between the toes, dry, scaly, or peeling skin – especially on the soles and sides of the feet — redness and inflammation, cracking and blistering that may lead to pain and secondary bacterial infections and a foul odor due to bacterial buildup in moist areas.
It’s important to note that athlete’s foot can mimic other skin condtions like eczema or psoriasis. IF over the counter treatments aren’t working, or if the condition worsens, it’s time to see a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis.
Treatment Options
Over-the-Counter Treatments
Mild cases can often be managed with antifungal creams, sprays, or powders containing active ingredients like clotrimazole, terbinafine, or miconazole. These should be applied consistently for at least two weeks, even after symptoms subside, to ensure complete eradication the fungus.
Prescription Medications
For more severe or persistent infections, I may prescribe stronger topical antifungals or oral medications like fluconazole or itraconazole. These treatments target the fungus more aggressively and are particularly useful for patients with recurring infections.
Home Remedies and Foot Care
While antifungal medications are the primary treatment, home care can significantly aid recovery:
Keep feet dry by drying them thoroughly after washing, especially between the toes. Use antifungal powders to absorb moisture and prevent fungal growth. Wear breathable footwear, such as moisture-wicking socks and shoes made from materials like leather or mesh. Disinfect shoes and socks by washing socks in hot water and using antifungal sprays ins shoes to kill lingering fungi.
Preventing Athlete’s Foot
Prevention is the best approach when dealing with athlete’s foot. Here’s what I advise my patients to do:
Proactive good hygiene by washing feet daily with soap and water and drying them thoroughly. Change socks regularly, especially if your feet sweat excessively, at least once or twice a day. Wear flip-flops in public areas to protect your feet in locker rooms, showers, and around swimming pools. Avoid sharing personal items such as socks, shoes, or towels to prevent fungal spread. Choose the right shoes by avoiding tight or non-breathable footwear and allowing your shoes to air out between wears.
When to See a Podiatrist
If symptoms persist despite over-the-counter treatments, or if you notice excessive pain, swelling or signs of a secondary bacterial infection (such as pus or increased redness), it’s crucial to seek professional help. People with diabetes should be especially cautious, as athlete’s foot can lead to more serious complications due to impaired circulation and nerve damage.
Athlete’s foot may be common, but it’s entirely preventable and treatable with the right approach. By maintaining proper foot hygiene, wearing appropriate footwear, and addressing symptoms early, you can keep your feet healthy and comfortable. As a podiatrist, I always emphasize the importance of foot care — not just for comfort but for overall well-being. If you’re struggling with persistent athlete’s foot, don’t hesitate to seek professional advice. Healthy feet are happy feet!
if you are experiencing symptoms of athlete’s foot, contact Dr. Rivero’s office at (239) 430-3668 (FOOT) or visit www.NaplesPodiatrist.com to schedule an examination.
📍 Visit us at naplespodiatrist.com to learn more.
Serving Southwest Florida Since 2005, Family Foot & Leg Center has 9 convenient locations throughout Collier, Lee, Charlotte, and Sarasota Counties. Offering pediatric to geriatric family care: Ingrown Toenails, Heel Pain, Bunions, Foot / Ankle Arthritis Pain, Plantar Fasciitis, Foot / Ankle Surgery, Custom Orthotics, and Diabetic Wound Care. In office X-rays, ultrasounds, and minor surgical suite exam rooms. Practice powered by EMR and advanced technologies. Home of the Lam Minimally Invasive No-Scar Bunion Surgery! Come Discover Why Patients Love Our 5-Star Foot & Ankle Care! Same Day Appointments! Easy Online Appointment Scheduling.
