How to avoid Athlete’s Foot

Athlete’s foot or tinea pedis is a skin infection caused by fungus that occurs on the foot. A fungal infection may occur on any part of the body; however, it commonly attacks the feet because it lives in a warm, moist, dark environments, such as your shoes.

Fungal infections are more common during the summer, hot months, when feet tend to sweat more. Fungus grows in damp areas, such as swimming pools, showers and locker rooms. Athletes often have sweaty feet and use the facilities where fungus is commonly found, thus the term “athlete’s foot.”

Athlete’s foot usually produces itchy, dry, scaling skin. It is commonly seen on the soles of the feet and in between the toes. In advanced cases, inflammation or redness, cracks and blisters may form; an infection caused by bacteria can also result. The fungus can spread to other areas of the body, including the toenails.

Here’s a list to remember to avoid Athlete’s feet:

1. Avoiding walking barefoot combined with good foot hygiene can help reduce the spread of the fungus.
2. Feet should be washed every day with soap and water and thoroughly dried, including between the toes. Feet should be kept as dry as possible.
3. If your feet sweat a lot, you may need to change your socks during the day. Antifungal powders, sprays and/or creams are often used to treat athlete’s foot.

Come visit our doctors to get your feet evaluated and get recommendations for sweaty and/or itchy feet. You may also purchase, Fungifoam, on our website for treatment of tinea pedis. Ask your doctor before using if it’s the treatment of choice for you.