What is Athletes Foot?

Athlete’s foot is a fungal infection that causes red, dry, flaking skin, sometimes accompanied by pain or itching. The condition usually occurs between the toes or on the soles or sides of the feet. In its acute stage, the infected foot exhibits blisters that itch or “weep.” Athlete’s Foot can spread to the toenails, causing chronic fungal infections. Often, when a patient thinks the feet are only dry and cracking, Athlete’s Foot is responsible for the problem.

Symptoms of Athletes Foot:

Tinea Pedis or Athletes Foot can take different forms:

A scaly dry rash on the bottom and sides of feet. This type of athlete's foot is called a "moccasin" pattern.

Cracks or "fissures" between the toes, sometimes with soft white scale.

Many people with athlete's foot also have a fungal infection of the toenails. The toenail infection is called Onychomycosis.

Toenail fungal infections may look different in different people. Most people have a white or yellow thickening under the nail. Onychomycosis is common and many adults have some fungus of their toenails. However, Onychomycosis can make the toenails difficult to cut and some people are predisposed to ingrown toenails because of the fungus. The fungus can also provide openings or cracks in the skin that may allow easier access for bacterial infections of the feet and legs.

Remember not every thick discoloured toenail is infected with fungus. Other conditions can mimic onychomycosis, including psoriasis and circulatory problems, and rarely, growths such as warts or tumors. Again, before you begin treatment, make sure your doctor helps you make the correct diagnosis.

Causes of Athletes Foot:

Fungal infections like Athlete’s Foot are often contracted in showers, gyms, dressing rooms, swimming pool lockers, or other warm, damp areas where fungus can thrive. The name of the condition comes from the fact that athletes spend the most time in these environments and therefore are at a higher risk of fungal infection. Once fungal spores are present on the feet, they can enter fissures or sores and remain there to spread, unless the feet are carefully washed and thoroughly dried after exposure. Athlete’s Foot can spread from the toes to the toenails. If the patient touches or scratches the infection and then touches other parts of the body, the fungus can spread to fingernails or other parts of the body, including the groin or underarms. Like any foot condition, Athlete’s Foot is of special concern to people with diabetes and compromised immune systems who are more susceptible to developing infections that can lead to serious medical problems.

Relief and Prevention of Athletes Foot:

Vigilant foot hygiene can prevent Athlete’s Foot. Daily washing of the feet with soap and water followed by thorough drying, especially between the toes, is important. Wearing dry, airy shoes and socks, not borrowing footwear from others, avoiding tight hosiery and using foot powder all help to keep the feet dry and infection-free. When using public showers or pool areas it is a good idea to wear protective shoes.  Once an infection has occurred, it is important to see a doctor, have the problem diagnosed correctly, and treat it promptly. Fungal infections can be stubborn and difficult to treat, and can become chronic. Treatment plans include prescription antifungal medications, either topical or oral, and continued attention to keeping the feet clean and dry.
Continue to consult with your foot doctor until the problem is eradicated.