Fact Checked
Overview of Athlete’s Foot
- Athlete’s foot is a widespread infection that disturbs the skin between the toes and soles of the feet.
Causes of Athlete’s Foot
- Athlete’s foot is instigated by a fungus. Fungus flourishes in warm, gloomy, clammy places such as the inside of a shoe, swimming pool areas, showers, and locker rooms.
- The fungus can live in a shoe, rug, mat, floor, or towel and move to your skin when your feet come in contact with them.
Risk Factors Of Athlete’s Foot
Athlete’s foot often occurs more frequently in men. Other risk factors that increase your chance of getting athlete’s foot:
- Previous history of athlete’s foot.
- Walking with no shoes in public places.
- Not keeping your feet dry and fresh.
- Wearing poorly aired shoes.
- Clammy feet.
- Hot, moist weather.
Symptoms Of Athlete’s Foot
Athlete’s foot symptoms generally begin in-between the toes. It might blow-out to the arches or soles of the feet, or to the toenails if the infection carries on. Athlete’s foot might cause:
- Dehydrated skin.
- Itching sensation.
- Skin starts to crack.
- Inflammation.
- A white, damp surface.
- Blisters, which might become exposed and very painful.
Diagnosis Of Athlete’s Foot
- The GP will ask about your symptoms. An examination of your feet will be prepared. Your GP might suspect that you have athlete’s foot based on the assessment.
- If required, your GP might scrape a tiny section from the infected skin for further diagnoses.
Treatment of Athlete’s Foot
Foot Hygiene
Take appropriate care of your feet:
- Softly rinse your feet regularly (at least daily) with water and soap. Fully dry all areas, particularly in-between the toes.
- Put some anti-fungal powder in your shoes to draw up the dampness.
- Make sure you change your socks and shoes on a regular basis.
- Rinse your hands after touching your toes or feet.