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Athletes Foot

Athletes foot treatment in the Wayne County, MI: Detroit (Hamtramck, River Rouge, Dearborn, Melvindale, Highland Park, Grosse Pointe Park, Grosse Pointe, Lincoln Park, Allen Park, Redford Charter Twp)

Athlete's Foot Care

Athlete’s foot is a fairly common, contagious condition that is caused by a fungal infection. The infection thrives in warm, moist environments, such as the inside of a shoe. It’s very common for athlete’s foot to develop in between the toes. Some key signs that you may be experiencing this condition include a burning, stinging, or itching sensation, as well as redness and flaking.

Athlete's Foot Causes and Prevention

Athlete’s foot is an extremely contagious infection caused by a fungus that results in itchy, burning, dry, and flaking feet. The fungus that causes Athlete’s foot is known as tinea pedis and thrives in moist, dark environments such as shower floors, gyms, socks and shoes, common areas, public changing areas, bathrooms, dormitory-style houses, locker rooms, and public swimming pools. Athlete’s foot can be difficult to treat due to its highly contagious and recurrent nature.

Athlete’s foot may spread by direct skin to skin contact, as well as by indirect contact, such as walking barefoot on a surface where the fungus lies. Environments such as locker rooms and communal showers are popular areas where athlete’s foot is known to spread. In order to better prevent yourself from catching athlete’s foot, it’s advised to take certain precautions. These precautions can include washing your feet often and drying them thoroughly, wearing clean cotton socks, washing your towels regularly, making sure you change your shoes and socks regularly, and avoiding walking around barefoot in public areas. It’s also advised to refrain from sharing footwear and to take footwear off as soon as possible after exercising.

Athlete's Foot Treatment

Because athlete's foot is best treated promptly, we recommend you consult with a podiatrist as soon as possible for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

Athlete’s Foot (FAQs)

What is athlete’s foot? 
Athlete’s foot, or tinea pedis, is a fungal infection of the skin on the feet. It causes a red, itchy, scaly rash to develop on the feet. The skin may become flaky or peel off. Typically, athlete’s foot develops between the toes or on the soles of the feet. 
How did I get athlete’s foot? 
Athlete’s foot is spread through contact with the tinea fungus. This fungus thrives in warm, moist environments, such as public swimming pools, showers, and locker rooms. If you frequent these places barefoot, the fungi can make its way into your skin. It can also be spread through contact with an infected person, which is why sharing personal items like shoes, socks, or towels should be avoided. 
What are the treatments for athlete’s foot? 
Your podiatrist will likely prescribe a topical antifungal treatment, such as a cream, spray, or powder. This type of treatment is applied directly to the skin to kill the fungi. Sometimes, oral antifungal medications, which are taken by mouth, may be needed. 
Is athlete’s foot contagious?
Athlete’s foot is contagious. It can spread from an infected surface to a person, and from one person to another. It can even spread to different areas on the same person. For example, athlete's foot can spread from the feet to the hands or groin of one person. The fungus can also infect the toenails. 
Can athlete’s foot be prevented? 
Athlete’s foot can be prevented. When going to public places, especially those that are warm, moist, or humid, wear shoes to protect your feet. Never share shoes, socks, or towels with another person. Maintain proper foot hygiene by washing your feet daily and drying them thoroughly, particularly in between the toes. If you tend to sweat from your feet, wear shoes and socks made of breathable, moisture-wicking material. This will help make your feet a less hospitable environment for fungi to grow. 

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Advanced Podiatric Procedures & Services in the Lucas County, OH: Toledo (Ottawa Hills, Silica, Holland, Shoreland, Oregon, Harbor View, Maumee) and Wayne County, MI: Detroit (Hamtramck, River Rouge, Dearborn, Melvindale, Highland Park, Grosse Pointe Park, Grosse Pointe, Lincoln Park, Allen Park, Redford Charter Twp) and Wood County, OH: Rossford, Northwood, Walbridge areas