Athlete's Foot

 

An Athelete’s Foot infection makes the skin on the feet itchy, red and sore and, if not treated, the skin soon becomes soggy and starts to crack and peel. You will usually notice that the rash begins in the spaces between your fourth and fifth toes. If the infection is left untreated, you may also notice a rash forming on the bottom and sides of your feet. Sometimes the infection can also spread to your toenails, causing them to be dry and crumbly.  If you scratch your infected skin, and then touch other parts of your body, you may cause the infection to spread. It is therefore important that you treat your infection (see 'treatment' section), and always wash your hands thoroughly after touching the rash.  The fungus can also spread to the toenails. 

Athlete's foot is a common condition in young people and adults and it's not only athletes who get this fungal infection.  Anyone who wears trainers for long periods of time can develop the infection, those who suffer from sweaty feet, or those who regularly use swimming pools or communal changing rooms. The condition is contagious. It can be spread by direct skin-to-skin contact and indirectly through towels, shoes, floors, etc.  The fungus loves to grow in warm, moist areas of the body and between sweaty toes is an ideal home. Once a fungus has been picked up and takes residence in the skin of your foot it can be very hard to shift.

If the area affected is moist, it should be treated with an anti-fungal spray (this is almost always the case between the toes); if the area is dry, use an anti-fungal cream. Never use creams between your toes as this will make them more moist. In mild cases powder can be used. See your foot health professional for recommendations.  Sprays, powders and creams are available from your pharmacist without prescription.

To prevent an infection or a recurrence of infection, pay attention to drying between the toes after bathing. Regularly dabbing between the toes with surgical spirit or witch hazel on cotton wool is a good idea for very sweaty feet. Make sure you allow your shoes or trainers to dry out for at least 24 hours after you've worn them - this means not wearing the same ones every day and remember to treat your shoes as well as your feet!  If your feet are prone to being sweaty take an extra pair of socks out with you to change into mid way through the day. When you get home, wash your feet and put on a pair of flip flops. An old naturopathic tip is to soak your socks in vinegar and dry them, then wear them for two hours every day before washing them and repeating the process.

 

Diet may also play a part. Some people who are particularly prone to fungal infestations may benefit from eating a diet low in sugars and yeasts, including alcohol and bread. A supplement of lactobacillus acidophilus might also help. This is the friendly bacteria found in live yogurt and is available in tablet or powder form from most good health food stores.

 

 

 

If you would like to know more please contact us here at the Earlsdon Practice by completing the form on our contact page.