Athlete's Foot - Fungal Infection of Foot Skin

Athlete's Foot Picture Athlete's Foot is a contagious fungus infection of the skin on the feet, usually the area between the toes and the skin on the soles. It is common especially during moist weather, when fungi (specifically trichophyton or epidermophyton) multiplies in warm and moist skin. It affects both adolescents and adults.

Athletes foot is also called Tinea Pedis, or Ringworm of the feet.

Athletes Foot Signs and Symptoms

People with Athletes Foot disease usually feel itching sensations in the area of the foot where fungi is developing. Scales – usually soft and moist and either red or gray-white – appear (especially between toes). In some cases, the scales may develop on the side of the feet, on the heels or on the soles. Some people also develop small blisters on feet . The feet of a person with Athletes Foot disease usually smells damp and moldy.

Athlete's Foot Causes and Risk Factors

Athlete’s foot is mainly caused by poor hygiene. People who do not wash their feet regularly or use dirty socks are at the highest risk. But people who wash their feet often without drying them are also at risk because the moisture around the feet attracts fungi.

Also susceptible to Athletes Foot are people who constantly use locker rooms and public showers. Their feet may get in contact with fungi from people. Patients who have histories of atopic eczema are also high-risk, and so are those who, due to illness or medication, are immuno-suppressed.

Diagnosing of Athletes Foot

Do you suspect that you have athlete’s foot? Experts advise that you do not self-medicate immediately. Visit a health professional to have your condition diagnosed.

During diagnosis, the scales developing on your feet may be brought to the laboratory for testing.

Athlete's Foot Treatment

TRADITIONAL TREATMENT. After the condition is confirmed, you may be required to apply anti fungal powders or ointments regularly (usually after bathing). These apply-on, over-the-counter antifungal medications usually have tea tree oil or crocodile, which have been proven to help eradicate fungi.

If your Athletes Foot is more severe than normal, the doctor may give you Oral Antifungals.

Expect the scales to completely heal in about three weeks. There is no special diet required during treatment. Athletes Foot disease is not debilitating – you can proceed with normal activities but may be required to skip those that cause your feet to sweat. You may also be required to wear sandals to keep the feet ventilated throughout the treatment.

OTHER FORMS OF TREATMENT. There have been studies conducted to support the claim that human urine is very good at killing the fungi that affects athlete's foot. This controversial treatment method requires the patient to urinate on the infected area during shower.

Be sure to ask your doctor to give you Athletes Foot information so you can make an informed, intelligent choice.

Athlete's Foot Prevention

To prevent Athletes Foot, be sure to follow a hygiene routine. If you are prone to the disease or have had it before, make it a habit to wash your feet with Benzoyl Peroxide Soap. Dry the areas between your toes very thoroughly before and then apply dusting or drying powder. Avoid synthetic socks – go for materials that let your feet breathe, such as cotton or other naturally-absorbent fibers. Also be sure to wear thongs sandals when using common showers.