Foot Fungus vs. Athlete's Foot
Foot fungus and athlete's foot are two terms that are often used interchangeably, even though they are two distinct conditions. Foot fungus, also known as tinea pedis, is a fungal infection of the skin on the feet. Athlete's foot is a specific type of foot fungus.
Tinea Pedis
Tinea pedis is a fungal infection of the skin on the feet. It is caused by different types of fungi, including Trichophyton, Epidermophyton, and Microsporum. Symptoms of foot fungus include itching, burning, and peeling of the skin on the feet, as well as thickening of the skin. It is most commonly seen on the soles of the feet and between the toes. Foot fungus is usually spread through contact with someone who has the infection, or through contact with contaminated surfaces such as locker room floors. It is also possible to get foot fungus from wearing shoes or socks that have been contaminated with the fungus. Treatment for foot fungus includes topical antifungal creams, oral antifungal medications, and home remedies such as soaking the feet in vinegar or tea tree oil solutions.
Athlete's Foot
Athlete's foot is a specific type of foot fungus, caused by the fungus Trichophyton rubrum. It is a very common condition, especially among athletes. Symptoms of athlete's foot include itching, burning, and peeling of the skin on the feet, as well as blisters and ulcers. It is most commonly seen on the soles of the feet and between the toes. Athlete's foot is usually spread through contact with someone who has the infection, or through contact with contaminated surfaces such as locker room floors. It is also possible to get athlete's foot from wearing shoes or socks that have been contaminated with the fungus. Treatment for athlete's foot includes topical antifungal creams, oral antifungal medications, and home remedies such as soaking the feet in vinegar or tea tree oil solutions.
In summary, foot fungus and athlete's foot are two different conditions. Foot fungus is a fungal infection of the skin on the feet, caused by different types of fungi. Athlete's foot is a specific type of foot fungus, caused by the fungus Trichophyton rubrum. Both conditions are spread through contact with someone who has the infection, or through contact with contaminated surfaces such as locker room floors. Treatment for both conditions includes topical antifungal creams, oral antifungal medications, and home remedies such as soaking the feet in vinegar or tea tree oil solutions.