Athlete’s Foot treatment Hove & Brighton

Athlete’s Foot

Athlete’s foot (tinea pedis) is a common fungal infection that affects millions of people worldwide. While it’s most often associated with athletes, anyone can get it, especially those who spend a lot of time in warm, moist environments.

What is Athlete’s Foot?

Athlete’s foot is a fungal infection that primarily affects the skin on your feet, particularly between the toes. It is caused by dermatophytes, a type of fungus that thrives in warm, moist environments, such as inside sweaty shoes, gym lockers, or public showers. The condition is contagious and can spread through direct contact with an infected person or contaminated surfaces like floors, towels, or shoes.

Causes of Athlete’s Foot

The main cause of athlete’s foot is exposure to dermatophyte fungi, typically found in places where moisture and warmth are present. Risk factors for developing athlete’s foot include:

• Public spaces: Using communal showers, locker rooms, and swimming pools increases exposure to fungal spores.
• Sweaty feet: Feet that sweat excessively provide an ideal environment for fungi to grow.
• Tight or non-breathable shoes: Wearing shoes that don’t allow your feet to breathe can trap moisture, promoting fungal growth.
• Weakened immune system: Conditions like diabetes or HIV/AIDS, as well as certain medications, can increase susceptibility to infections.
• Poor foot hygiene: Not keeping your feet clean and dry can raise the risk of fungal infections.
• Fungal nails : Fungi can spread from the infected toenails to the skin so it is therefore important to treat the nails as well. For further advice call us and see one of our Podiatrists.

Symptoms of Athlete’s Foot

Athlete’s foot typically begins between the toes but can spread to the soles of the feet and other areas of the body. Common symptoms include:

• Itching, burning, or stinging: These sensations often begin between the toes or on the soles of the feet.
• Red, scaly patches: The affected skin may appear red, irritated, and flaky. In severe cases, blisters may form.
• Peeling or cracking skin: The skin between your toes may peel, crack, or even bleed, leading to discomfort.
• Odor: The infection may cause an unpleasant odor due to the combination of fungi and bacteria.
• Dry or scaly skin on the soles: Athlete’s foot can sometimes cause thick, dry skin to form on the soles or sides of the feet.

Treatment for Athlete’s Foot

Luckily, athlete’s foot can be treated effectively with both over-the-counter and prescription remedies. Treatment options include:

1. Topical Antifungal Creams or Sprays

Most people can treat athlete’s foot with over-the-counter antifungal medications that come in the form of creams, powders, sprays, or ointments. Common antifungal ingredients include:

• Clotrimazole
• Miconazole
• Terbinafine
• Tolnaftate

These treatments work by killing the fungus or preventing its growth. Apply the product as directed, usually to the affected area once or twice a day for up to two weeks, even if symptoms improve earlier. However athlete’s foot can be caused by fungal nail infection.

2. Oral Antifungal Medications

In severe cases, or when topical treatments aren’t effective, a doctor may prescribe oral antifungal medications such as terbinafine or itraconazole. These medications work from the inside out to eliminate the infection.

3. Keep Feet Clean and Dry

To support your recovery, it’s essential to maintain good foot hygiene. Wash your feet regularly with soap and water, making sure to dry them thoroughly, especially between your toes. Avoid wearing the same socks or shoes two days in a row, and consider changing socks during the day if your feet get sweaty.

4. Soak Your Feet

Soaking your feet in a solution of warm water and salt, vinegar, or antifungal powder can help reduce symptoms and promote healing. Epsom salt soaks can also provide relief from itching and discomfort.

Preventing Athlete’s Foot

While athlete’s foot can be easily treated, it’s even better to prevent it altogether. Here are several preventive measures to keep in mind:

• Wear breathable footwear: Opt for shoes made of materials like leather or canvas that allow air to circulate around your feet. Avoid tight, non-breathable shoes such as plastic sandals or synthetic materials.
• Keep feet dry: Moisture is the enemy of healthy feet. Dry your feet thoroughly after washing them, and consider using foot powder or antifungal powder to reduce moisture.
• Change socks frequently: If your feet sweat a lot, change your socks more than once a day. Choose moisture-wicking socks made from materials like wool or synthetic blends rather than cotton, which tends to hold moisture.
• Wear flip-flops or shower shoes: In public places like gym locker rooms, pools, or communal showers, always wear flip-flops or shower shoes to reduce the risk of contact with fungal spores.
• Disinfect shoes and socks: Fungal spores can live in shoes, so disinfect them regularly with antifungal sprays or powders. You can also rotate between different pairs of shoes to give each pair time to air out.
• Avoid sharing personal items: Never share towels, socks, shoes, or nail clippers with others, as this can spread the infection.