Athlete's foot is a common fungal infection of the skin that affects millions of people every year. If left untreated, it can worsen over time and cause severe pain, discomfort, and other health problems. The following article will discuss what happens if athlete's foot gets too bad and provide tips on how to prevent and treat the condition.
Symptoms of Severe Athlete's Foot
When athlete's foot gets too bad, a person may experience a range of unpleasant symptoms. These can range from intense itching, burning, and stinging, to cracking, peeling, and blistering of the affected skin. In some cases, the infection may spread to the toenails, causing them to become thick, discolored, and brittle. In more severe cases, the infection may even spread to other parts of the body, such as the hands and feet.
Complications of Severe Athlete's Foot
Left untreated, athlete's foot can lead to serious complications, such as bacterial infections, cellulitis, and even abscesses. These complications can be very painful, and in some cases, even require hospitalization and antibiotics.
Preventing Athlete's Foot
The best way to prevent athlete's foot from getting too bad is to practice good hygiene. This includes keeping the feet clean and dry, wearing clean socks and shoes, and avoiding walking barefoot in public places. It is also important to avoid sharing towels and other items with people who may be infected.
Treating Athlete's Foot
If athlete's foot does become severe, it is important to seek treatment right away. Over-the-counter antifungal creams and sprays are usually effective in treating mild to moderate cases. For more severe cases, prescription medications may be necessary. It is important to follow the instructions of a healthcare professional when treating athlete's foot.
By following these tips, it is possible to prevent athlete's foot from getting too bad and keep it from becoming a serious health problem. If you suspect that you have athlete's foot, it is important to seek medical attention right away.