Athletes Foot

Athlete's Foot Treatment

Athletes foot treatment in the Manatee County, FL: Bradenton (University Park, Bayshore Gardens, Palmetto, Foxleigh, Lakewood Ranch, Ellenton, Parrish) and Sarasota County, FL: Sarasota (South Gate Ridge, Sarasota Springs, Venice, Laurel, Osprey, Fruitville, South Sarasota, North Sarasota, Southgate, Bee Ridge) areas

Athlete’s foot is a fungal infection that’s highly contagious and can be spread through direct skin to skin contact as well as indirect contact. Athlete’s foot can be spread directly when an uninfected person touches the infected area of someone who has athlete’s foot. The condition can be spread indirectly through contaminated surfaces, clothing, socks, shoes, bed sheets, and towels.

Areas that are known to be damp, warm, or humid are commonly known to be more susceptible to carrying the fungal infection. With that being said, you should use caution around swimming pools and communal showers to avoid picking up athlete’s foot. If you know you have a weaker immune system, you should also be sure to use caution around these types of environments.

Athlete’s foot is spread by direct contact with an infected body part, contaminated clothing, or by touching other objects and body parts that have been exposed to the fungus. Because the feet are an ideal place for tinea to grow, thrive, and spread, they are the most commonly affected area. The fungus is known, however, to grow in other areas as well.

Aside from the feet, Athlete’s foot has been known to infect the hands, groin, and scalp. Around 70% of the population suffers from tinea infections at some point in their lives; however, not all of these cases are Athlete’s foot. Just like any other ailment, some people are more likely to get it than others. Those with a history of tinea infections or other skin infections, both recurring and non-recurring, are more likely to contract Athlete’s foot. On top of this, the extent to which a person experiences regrowth and recurrent tinea infections varies from person to person.

Aside from the feet, Athlete’s foot has been known to infect the hands, groin, and scalp. Around 70% of the population suffers from tinea infections at some point in their lives; however, not all of these cases are Athlete’s foot. Just like any other ailment, some people are more likely to get it than others. Those with a history of tinea infections or other skin infections, both recurring and non-recurring, are more likely to contract Athlete’s foot. On top of this, the extent to which a person experiences regrowth and recurrent tinea infections varies from person to person.

Athletes Foot Symptoms

Those who are affected by athlete’s foot may experience symptoms such as cracking, dryness, flakiness, itchiness, redness, or scaliness of the skin of the foot or in between the toes. Oozing, crusting, swelling, and the formation of blisters are other symptoms that may arise due to athlete’s foot.

Sometimes people will not even know they have Athlete’s foot due to a lack of symptoms.

If athlete’s foot goes untreated, there is a high risk that it may spread from toe to toe. With this in mind, it’s highly recommended that you meet with a podiatrist for a professional diagnosis. Your podiatrist can give you information about treatment options that best suit your case.

Athlete’s Foot (FAQs)

What is athlete’s foot?
Athlete’s foot, or tinea pedis, is a fungal infection of the skin on the feet. It causes a red, itchy, scaly rash to develop on the feet. The skin may become flaky or peel off. Typically, athlete’s foot develops between the toes or on the soles of the feet.
How did I get athlete’s foot?
Athlete’s foot is spread through contact with the tinea fungus. This fungus thrives in warm, moist environments, such as public swimming pools, showers, and locker rooms. If you frequent these places barefoot, the fungi can make its way into your skin. It can also be spread through contact with an infected person, which is why sharing personal items like shoes, socks, or towels should be avoided.
What are the treatments for athlete’s foot?
Your podiatrist will likely prescribe a topical antifungal treatment, such as a cream, spray, or powder. This type of treatment is applied directly to the skin to kill the fungi. Sometimes, oral antifungal medications, which are taken by mouth, may be needed.
Is athlete’s foot contagious?
Athlete’s foot is contagious. It can spread from an infected surface to a person, and from one person to another. It can even spread to different areas on the same person. For example, athlete's foot can spread from the feet to the hands or groin of one person. The fungus can also infect the toenails.
Can athlete’s foot be prevented?
Athlete’s foot can be prevented. When going to public places, especially those that are warm, moist, or humid, wear shoes to protect your feet. Never share shoes, socks, or towels with another person. Maintain proper foot hygiene by washing your feet daily and drying them thoroughly, particularly in between the toes. If you tend to sweat from your feet, wear shoes and socks made of breathable, moisture-wicking material. This will help make your feet a less hospitable environment for fungi to grow.

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