Foot conditions are innumerable. There’s plantar fasciitis, corn, shin splints, ingrown toenail and the list is endless. But did you know that Athlete’s foot is one of the most common foot problems? As per a survey conducted by NCBI, around 15% of the population suffers from this foot condition, especially the aged and men. Many people think that it happens to only those who are actively involved in sports and athletic events because of the name (‘Athlete’s foot’, clear connection?). However, it is completely wrong! A fungal infection like Athlete’s foot affects the skin around the toes. If neglected, it becomes severe as well as spreads to other body parts and causes infection. Surely, you don’t want that, right? Hence, availing fungal infections treatment in Mandurah is highly recommended no sooner than you realize you’re having Athlete’s foot. But what is Athlete’s foot exactly? What are the symptoms? How to prevent it?
Don’t worry! In this blog, we’ll discuss everything concerning the athlete’s foot.
What is Athlete’s foot?
A type of fungal infection that affects the foot’s upper part of the skin, it is also popularly called tinea pedi or ringworm of the foot. Athlete’s foot is generally characterized by itchy or irritated skin between the toes or anywhere on the foot. Trichophyton is the fungus that causes this infection which usually comes from clothes or floors. Anyone can develop athlete’s foot and not only athletes. To be more precise, Trichophyton infects the foot only if the conditions are conducive; it develops when the skin of the foot is warm and moist, especially when you wear tight fitting shoes for a long time.
People having athlete’s foot may experience discomfort in the form of stinging, burning, itching, redness or flaking of the skin. Before it deteriorates and becomes worse, it is advisable to visit a podiatry clinic in Mandurah and seek medical attention.
Causes
Trichophyton is a dermatophyte (derma=skin, phyte=fungus), a fungus that causes infection on human skin, nails and hair. This fungus resides harmlessly on the skin as long as it is clean and dry. However, their rapid multiplication begins the moment the fungus is exposed to warm and damp conditions.
- People wearing thick and tight shoes all the time are likely to develop athlete’s foot as such footwear always press the toes together, creating the ideal breeding ground for the fungus to survive.
- The risk of having athlete’s foot increases when you wear moist socks and if your feet are warm. The combination creates favourable conditions that promote the growth of this fungus.
- Being contagious, athlete’s foot spread easily when in direct contact with someone who is infected. The infection can spread easily from contaminated towels, footwear and floors. Hence, neither should you share your towel with anyone nor use anyone else’s towel. If you have athlete’s foot, sanitize and disinfect the floors and surfaces of your home mandatorily.
Symptoms
Common symptoms of athlete’s foot are:
- Itching
- Scaling, peeling, flaking or cracking of the feet
- Blisters
- Redness
In case of severe infection, the skin cracks and there may be itchy blisters, oozing and swelling. Sometimes there can be open sores in the skin too. These are signs that the infection has turned out to be serious and if left untreated, it can spread to the other areas of the foot and induce the level of discomfort. Opting for fungal infections treatment in Mandurah at the right time can save you from the unwanted complications and provide you relief.
Prevention
As per a podiatrist’s recommendation, there are various ways to reduce the risk of developing athlete’s foot but the best ones are:
- Replace thick and tight shoes with quality leather and canvas ones.
- After exercising, remove your shoes and wash your feet using antibacterial soap.
- Keep your feet always dry.
- Don’t share footwear not even with your best friend or family. Show your kindness in some other way!
- Use cotton socks as they are more breathable and keep your skin cool.
Why Should I Visit a Podiatry Clinic?
Visit a podiatry clinic if you don’t want athlete’s foot to become severe. Depending on the condition, the podiatrist will recommend the most effective treatment options. You may be prescribed creams, sprays or gels, appropriate footwear.
The National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) is a part of the National Library of Medicine (NLM). It has numerous databases related to biotechnology and biomedicine. According to the NCBI reports, almost 15 to 25% of the population is likely to have athlete’s foot. One survey by the NCBI indicates that industrial workers and swimming pool users are at risk of having this fungal foot infection. However, prompt diagnosis and treatment can control the spread and transmission. Topical antifungal medications are generally recommended for treating athlete’s foot.
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