Athlete’s Foot: What is It and How Can You Treat It?

Athlete’s foot (tinea pedis) is a common fungal infection that affects the skin of the foot—most often the soles and between the toes. It is caused by the same fungus that causes ringworm and jock itch, but it occurs most frequently on the feet due to their frequent exposure to warm, damp environments, such as shower floors and locker rooms.

What are the Symptoms of Athlete’s Foot?

The most common symptoms of athlete’s foot include redness, itching, flaking, and stinging of the affected skin. Other signs and symptoms include:

• A burning sensation in the feet
• Cracking and peeling skin
• Blisters
• White patches on the skin

In extreme cases, athlete’s foot may lead to secondary bacterial skin infections.

How Can Athlete’s Foot be Prevented?

Preventing athlete’s foot is much easier than treating it once it appears. To reduce the chances of getting athlete’s foot, you should:

• Keep your feet clean and dry. After showering or swimming, thoroughly dry your feet, paying special attention to the spaces between the toes.

• Change your socks daily. Wear clean, moisture-wicking socks and alternate the pairs each day.

• Wear sandals in public places. Avoid wearing shoes or walking barefoot in locker rooms, public showers, etc.

• Change your shoes often. Wear different pairs of shoes and allow your shoes to dry out between uses.

• Use antifungal powder. Apply antifungal powder to your feet and inside your shoes every day.

• Avoid nail salons. Toenail fungus can cause athlete’s foot, so try to avoid having pedicures and manicures if you can.

How Can Athlete’s Foot be Treated?

Athlete’s foot is typically treated with over-the-counter antifungal creams, sprays, and powders. Your doctor may also prescribe an antifungal medication for more severe cases. Home remedies, such as soaking your feet in vinegar or rubbing them with Vicks VapoRub, may also provide relief from the symptoms. However, it’s important to treat athlete’s foot before it spreads to other parts of the body or to other people.

It’s also important to keep the infected area clean and dry. Be sure to follow the instructions on the medication and avoid scratching the infected area.

Conclusion

Athlete’s foot is a common skin infection caused by the same fungus that causes ringworm and jock itch. Common symptoms include redness, itching, flaking, stinging, and burning. To prevent athlete’s foot, it’s important to keep your feet clean and dry and to wear sandals in public places. Treatment typically includes over-the-counter and prescription antifungal medications.