Athlete’s foot is a type of fungal skin eruption affecting the foot. It can develop on any part of the foot including the toe webs, sole and back part of the foot.
Fungi either mold or yeast can trigger athlete’s foot. The fungi can be acquired by sharing shoes or socks with an infected person and using public showers or locker rooms.
What are the indications?
Itchy and cracking of the foot with white, moist, scaly sore or lesions between the toes that frequently spreads to the soles of the foot.
In one form of athlete’s foot, it results to dry, scaling that results to a reddish “moccasin-like” area over the soles of the feet. In most cases, it often affects both feet. In uncommon cases, the infection might include sore blisters or lesions.
Management of athlete’s foot
- Various over-the-counter antifungal medications can be applied on the affected area. The creams must be applied sparingly but on a regular basis at least once a day.
- Make sure that the feet are kept dry and clean. Use clean, absorbent socks made of natural fibers such as cotton and change once the feet becomes sweaty or moist.
- If possible, remove the insoles of shoes and sneakers to allow them to dry overnight.
- The interior of shoes and socks must be dusted with talcum powder or medicated powder to reduce the moisture level.
- Alternate different pairs of shoes to allow them to dry for 1-2 days at a time.
When to consult a doctor
If athlete’s foot disrupts with daily activities, seek medical care. There are cases in which a simple case of athlete’s foot can end up “super infected” with bacteria. Once this occurs, the rash can become increasingly painful and reddened.
The foot can end up swollen along with the formation of blisters and open sores in the infected site. Oral antibiotics are usually prescribed by the doctor.