Tinea Pedis, better known as Athlete’s Foot, is a skin disease caused by a fungal infection of the foot (usually between the toes).
Symptoms of Athlete’s Foot
• Cracked, Flaking, or Peeling Skin
• Red and Itchy Skin
• Burning or Stinging Pain
• Oozing or Crusty Blisters
• Discolored, Thick and even Crumbling Toenails
Athlete’s foot is highly contagious and can be passed either through direct contact or contact with items like shoes, socks, shower floors, etc.
Treatment of Athlete’s Foot
Athlete’s foot is very treatable with over-the-counter antifungal powders or creams and proper foot hygiene. However, if your fungus condition does not respond to proper foot hygiene or self-care within 1-2 weeks, call We Treat Feet Podiatry. We will determine if the fungus is the cause of the problem. If it is, a specific treatment plan, including the prescription of antifungal medication. A biopsy of the area may be needed in some cases to determine if a fungal infection is present.
If the infection is caused by bacteria, antibiotics, such as penicillin, that are effective against a broad spectrum of bacteria may be prescribed.
Preventing Athlete’s Foot
It is not easy to prevent Athlete’s Foot since the disease is usually contracted in dressing rooms, public showers, or swimming pools. However, there are several steps you can take to better protect your feet from this fungal infection, including:
• Practice good foot hygiene: Wash your feet daily with soap and water and dry carefully.
• Change your shoes and socks frequently to decrease moisture.
• Wear sandals or swim shoes in public swimming pools or showers.
• Wear shoes that are well ventilated and avoid plastic-lined shoes.
• Use anyfungal or drying powder if you are susceptible to contracting Athlete’s Foot.
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If you have any other questions or wish to schedule an appointment, contact We Treat Feet Podiatry by clicking here to view our various locations and phone numbers!
We Treat Feet! That’s what we do. From the simplest nail problems, to the most complex foot deformities, we provide exceptional care in a kind and compassionate manner. We offer board certified physicians that have spent years learning the intricate structures and functions of the human foot and ankle. No knees or elbows here, only the best foot and ankle care available in Maryland.
From heel pain, bunions, Sports medicine injuries, broken bones, neuromas, hammertoes, and flatfeet to Achilles tendon problems, we have the most modern technology available to help you, including digital x-ray, diagnostic ultrasound, and vascular testing equipment.
Our physician team offers treatments for people of all ages, from infants to seniors. No foot is too big, no problem is too big, because remember, We Treat Feet!
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