Athletes Foot
Athletes foot (also known as Tinea Pedis) is a skin infection which is commonly thought to occur amongst athletes and those who wear trainers and other non-breathable footwear.
Symptoms of Athletes Foot
- Varying degrees of itching or burning.
- Often peeling or flaking skin is present.
- Mild cases may appear as just dry skin.
- More severe cases may present with blisters or thick patches of dry red skin.
- In extreme cases the skin may crack and result in bleeding.
Causes
It is caused by a fungus, called Trichophyton which thrives in warm, moist environments. Athletes foot most commonly affects the toes and in between them, however it can also affect the soles of the feet.
Athletes foot is contagious, however the foot has to provide the right conditions for the fungus to thrive. It may be passed through direct contact and also by using the same towels, socks or from changing room floors.
Athletes foot can appear in anyone, although it is more common in teenagers and men. Some people also seem to be more prone to developing the condition, although it is not known why. The prevalence in 'athletes' may be due to wearing enclosed footwear which becomes very hot and sweaty during exercise, but is probably also linked to using communal changing areas in pools and health clubs.
How can it be treated?
Athletes foot treatment should be two fold. Firstly, the area should be made less suitable for the fungus to grow. This means keeping the area clean and dry. Try to only wear breathable shoes (leather and natural materials are better than synthetics). Absorbent cotton socks are also recommended.
The second stage involves directly treating the infection. This can be done with anti-fungal creams, powders or washes. Many of these products are available from your local pharmacist. They should be used on a daily basis until you have been symptom free for at least a week.
More resistant or severe cases may require a course of oral anti-fungal medication. These are only available on prescription from your Doctor.
Preventing Athletes Foot
Athletes foot does have a tendency to return and so it is important to continue to look after your feet by following these simple steps:
- Wear leather shoes, or even open shoes when possible.
- Wash your feet regularly and make sure you dry them thoroughly.
- Use powders (such as talcum powder, or even anti-fungus powder) to make sure your feet are completely dry after washing.
- Wear flip-flops or sandals when using communal changing areas.
- Wear cotton socks and change them regularly.
