One common foot ailment is something called athlete’s foot. Athlete’s foot is a condition caused by a fungus. Also known as tinea pedis, athlete’s foot can affect the skin and spread to the hands and toenails. The fungus lives in warm, moist areas and is contagious. You can catch athlete’s foot at public showers, pools and locker rooms. Sharing contaminated towels or shoes, having moist feet, wearing tight and closed-toe footwear increases your chances of contracting this common foot ailment.
Symptoms of athlete’s foot include:
- Dry skin on sides or bottom of your feet
- Raw skin
- Thick, discolored toenails
- Itching and burning between toes or on the soles of your feet
- Cracking and peeling skin on feet
- Loose toenails
If you suspect you’re developing athlete’s foot, contact your podiatrist for treatment.
While treatments for athlete’s feet vary, they can be divided into four categories. The first is to use a topical steroid which will reduce pain and swelling. The second is to use an oral antibiotic. The third is to use a topical non-steroid, anti-fungal medicine and the fourth is an oral anti-fungal medicine like Sporanox or Lamisil. Any of these should help, but the best person to determine which is most appropriate is your podiatrist.
Athlete’s foot can be a big problem, so the best suggestion is to avoid contracting it. Wash your feet using soap and water and make sure to dry them thoroughly. Another is to consistently use an anti-fungal powder on your feet especially after washing. This will help keep your feet clean and dry. Wearing sandals, especially in public places like showers or pools accompanied with dry socks, will also help. Going barefoot at home will also help as it airs out accumulated moisture. These are just a few suggestions, all of which will go a long way to keeping your feet healthy.
If you believe you are developing athlete’s foot or have any concerns about your feet, make an appointment with Alta Ridge Foot Specialists at one of our three offices at 105 Chestnut Street, Mars Hill or 440 Alta Pass Highway, Spruce Pine or 2211 NC Hwy 105 Boone, NC. We are a proud member of the Instride Foot and Ankle Partnership, a statewide partnership of doctors dedicated to providing state of the art care to our patients. Dr. W. Aaron Broyles, Dr. Robert L. Van Brederode and Dr. Thomas Verla and their staff will be happy to see and treat you. Contact us today!
