Athlete’s Foot

What is Athlete’s Foot?

Athlete’s foot is a skin disease caused by a fungus, usually occurring between the toes. The fungus most commonly attacks the feet because shoes create a warm, dark, and humid environment which encourages fungus growth. The warmth and dampness of areas around swimming pools, showers, and locker rooms are also breeding grounds for fungi. Because the infection was common among athletes who used these facilities frequently, the term “athlete’s foot” became popular.

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What are Causes & Conditions of Athlete’s Foot?

Not all fungus conditions are athlete’s foot. Other conditions, such as disturbances of the sweat mechanism, reaction to dyes or adhesives in shoes, eczema, and psoriasis, may mimic athlete’s foot.

The signs of athlete’s foot, singly or combined, are dry skin, itching, scaling, inflammation, and blisters. Blisters often lead to cracking of the skin. When blisters break, small raw areas of tissue are exposed, causing pain and swelling. Itching and burning may increase as the infection spreads.

Athlete’s foot may spread to the soles of the feet and to the toenails. It can be spread to other parts of the body, notably the groin and underarms, by those who scratch the infection and then touch themselves elsewhere. The organisms causing athlete’s foot may persist for long periods. Consequently, the infection may be spread by contaminated bed sheets or clothing to other parts of the body.

Athlete’s Foot can be caused by many conditions that include:

Public Exposure. The warmth and dampness of areas public areas swimming pools, showers, and locker rooms are breeding grounds for fungi. If one person frequenting these locations has the infection, it can spread easily to other people.

Shoes. Shoes can create a warm, dark, and humid environment which encourages fungus growth.

Athlete’s Foot FAQ

Keep feet dry, especially between the toes. Change socks regularly (daily), sweaty feet may require you to change socks twice daily. Wear sandals or waterproof shoes in public places. If you are at risk, use anti-fungal powder or spray daily. Wear well ventilated shoes. Change shoes if exposed to moisture (allows them to dry out -shoes and feet).

If you suspect you have Athlete’s foot, try an over the counter anti-fungal medication (powder, lotion, cream, or spray). In addition, follow advice in the prevention category. If condition does not respond, prescription medication may be required, either topical or oral. In addition, some bacterial infections or skin disorders may mimic the appearance of Athlete’s foot. These conditions will require alternative therapy, as they will not respond to anti-fungal medication. If condition worsens or you are concerned and do not want to attempt treatment yourself, call and make an appointment.

If you suspect an Achilles tendon injury, rest immediately and avoid putting weight on the leg. See a podiatrist as soon as possible to assess the damage and begin treatment.

If you are experiencing athletes foot please visit any of our five locations, Savannah, Hinesville, Statesboro, Claxton, or Bluffton and speak with our podiatrists to create a treatment plan perfectly suited to you and your needs.

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