We Know: All About Athlete's Foot

What is Athlete's Foot?

Athlete's Foot is a common fungal infection caused by a fungus called Tinea pedis. It is easily spread and many people have had the misfortune of catching it at some time.

How do you get Athlete's Foot?

The Athlete’s Foot fungus thrives in warm and moist environments. The most common places people get the fungus are in public communal showers, health clubs and locker rooms. Swimming pools, spas and jacuzzis are also prime candidates for passing the fungus to other people. The fungus can exist independently of a host for a short time in warm puddles and dampened floor areas.

What are the symptoms of Athlete's Foot?

The primary symptom of Athlete's Foot is a horrible itching between the creases of the toes. Secondary symptoms can include redness and scaling of the skin, and even cracked, blistered and open sores on the skin.

How do you treat Athlete's Foot?

Athlete’s foot can usually be treated with relatively cheap over the counter medications. Your neighborhood pharmacy should carry a wide range of treatments. The most common topical agents are Clotrimazole (Lotrimin) and Terbinafine (Lamisal AT). These agents must be applied several times a day for at least two weeks. If your symptoms don’t go away, you may have to visit your healthcare provider. The doctor will generally prescribe an oral medication such as Sporanox or Diflucan. Regardless of how long you have had the fungus it would be better to seek outside help once symptoms have graduated to open sores.

How do you avoid Athlete's Foot?

The best way to avoid catching the Athlete's Foot fungus is to avoid frequenting the environments where the fungus thrives. If you do go to these places try to keep your feet sandled where appropriate. Change socks often, and never borrow socks or shoes from another person. Wash your feet thoroughly when showering, and dry them carefully afterwards.