Athlete foot is a fungal infection of the feet that is also known as tinea pedis. This infection was named athlete foot because it often attacked feet of athletes. The fungus mostly grows on the area around the toes and more evidently at the bottom of the feet. Moreover, this fungus can also attack the hands and the nails of both fingers and the toes. Athlete foot can be spread by touch and can be easily contracted by walking barefoot in public spaces, for instance, the gym and swimming pools. Victims who scratch on the infected area then touch other parts of the body are more likely to spread it to those parts, especially, under the arm and the groin. This fungus can also be spread to someone else if in contact with the infected area or if they get into contact with objects that were in contact with the infected area of the patient for example their shoes. Therefore, athlete foot is highly contagious.
Signs and Symptoms
- Itchiness
- Blisters
- inflammation
- Redness
- Dry skin
- Scaling
- Bad odor
Types of athlete foot and their Treatment
- Moccasin Infection
This infection attacks the sole of the feet. The skin become scaly and thick hence difficult to treat because nonprescription medicine is not able to reach the inner tissues. This infection requires the patient to get the prescription medication and also see a doctor to get oral medication too to clear up the infection completely.
- Interdigital infection
This infection mostly occurs in the toes (normally between 4th and 5th toe). It is the most common one and it’s also known as the toe web infection. This is easily treatable by the nonprescription medications. The feet are also required to be kept clean all the time.
- Vesicular infection
In this type of infection, blisters appear in the inner foot which if they burst increase risk of other bacteria to infect. During treatment, the blisters need to be dried completely then apply an antifungal cream. A doctor may also prescribe oral antibiotics to help healing in case of a bacterial infection.
Home remedies of athlete foot
- Spray shoes with anti-fungal sneaker’s spray.
- Follow doctor’s instruction carefully and don’t miss on taking the prescribed medications.
- Avoid putting on of wet socks and shoes.
- Gentle cleansing of the feet daily and dry them completely afterwards.
- Use powder during hot climate.
