Athlete’s Foot
Athletes foot, also known as Tinea Pedis, is a condition that affects the epidermis or skin of the foot. It is most commonly encountered in the webbing between the toes, but can also spread to the bottom and sides of the foot. It is characterized by peeling, redness, itchiness, and flaking. In extreme cases it may also involve swelling, inflammation, cracked skin, and blisters. Tinea Pedis is an extremely common skin condition, second only to acne. It is more common among males than females
Athletes foot is caused by a group of fungi called dermatophytes. The condition is contagious and the dermatophyte fungi which causes Tinea pedis may spread to affect other parts of the body too, such as the groin. In this case symptoms are similar but it’s called Tinea Cruris or jock itch. Similarly it may be spread to other persons who come into contact with infected surfaces, towels, footwear, clothes etc. The fungus thrives in warm moist environments. Hence, sweaty shoes, showers and locker room floors provide an ideal setting for the fungi. Hygiene can therefore play a crucial role in controlling and avoiding the spread of this disease. Common sense measures such as not sharing footwear, avoiding walking barefoot in locker rooms, frequent laundering of towels, and disinfection of bathroom floors, bathtubs, and showers can help to contain the spread of infection.
Athletes foot may be an unpleasant irritation to the sufferer but it is unlikely to be cause for serious concern unless it opens the door to secondary bacterial infections. Persons with conditions such as diabetes, which leave them more vulnerable should therefore exercise extra care in dealing with Athletes foot.
Diagnosis of Athletes foot is usually possible simply by examination of the affected area. However, if there is any possibility of other skin conditions such as psoriasis or eczema then further tests may be required. Treatment is usually by application of topical anti-fungal creams. Symptoms will usually abate after a few days but it is important to continue application of the cream for the full duration - usually several weeks to ensure that the fungus has been completely eradicated from the skin. Antibiotics and other oral medications are generally not required unless a secondary infection has taken hold. There are also a range of natural remedies such a tea tree oil, garlic and onion extracts, baking soda, boric acid etc which have varying degrees of effectiveness in combating symptoms and rooting out the fungus.
At the end of the day, however, prevention is better than cure. Here are 4 simple steps that you can take to significantly reduce the chances of contracting tinea pedis:
- Keep your feet dry, especially between toes
- Keep your shoes dry (use of open-toed shoes could help)
- Change your socks frequently and wear cotton socks which reduce sweating
- Use talcum powder on feet to keep them dry (anti-fungal powders are even more effective)
