Athlete's foot, also known as tinea pedis, is a common fungal infection of the skin on the feet. It typically causes itching, burning, and scaling of the skin, and it can be quite uncomfortable. While athlete's foot is usually not a serious medical condition, it can cause complications if left untreated.
Causes of Athlete's Foot
Athlete's foot is caused by a type of fungus called a dermatophyte. Dermatophytes are microscopic organisms that live off of keratin, a protein found in the skin, nails, and hair. When dermatophytes invade the feet, they cause the skin to become red, itchy, and scaly.
Athlete's foot is usually contracted by coming into contact with an infected person or contaminated objects such as towels, socks, or shoes. Walking barefoot in warm, moist areas such as public showers, locker rooms, or swimming pools can also increase the risk of contracting athlete's foot.
Symptoms of Athlete's Foot
The most common symptom of athlete's foot is itching, which is usually followed by redness, burning, and scaling of the skin. The affected areas of the skin may also become cracked and blistered. The toes are particularly vulnerable to this infection, and the fungal infection may spread to other parts of the body such as the hands, groin, and scalp.
Treatment of Athlete's Foot
Athlete's foot can usually be treated with over-the-counter antifungal creams, sprays, or ointments. These products usually contain active ingredients such as miconazole, clotrimazole, or terbinafine. In more severe cases, a doctor may prescribe a stronger antifungal medication such as fluconazole or ketoconazole.
In addition to antifungal medications, it is important to keep the feet clean and dry. This can be done by washing the feet daily and drying them thoroughly. Shoes should be changed and aired out daily, and socks should be changed at least once a day. It is also advisable to avoid walking barefoot in public showers and other warm, moist areas.
Complications of Athlete's Foot
If left untreated, athlete's foot can lead to complications such as secondary bacterial infections, athlete's foot that does not respond to treatment, and toenail fungus. It is important to seek medical attention if the infection does not respond to self-treatment or if the infection spreads to other parts of the body.
Athlete's foot is a common fungal infection of the skin on the feet that typically causes itching, burning, and scaling of the skin. It can usually be treated with over-the-counter antifungal creams, sprays, or ointments, but it is important to seek medical attention if the infection does not respond to self-treatment or if the infection spreads to other parts of the body.