Athlete’s Foot
in Centerville, OH
What is “athlete’s foot?”
Athlete’s foot is a contagious, fungal infection caused by the same fungi as ringworm and jock itch. It gets its name because the infection often spreads in places like locker rooms, pools, and showers, but can impact anyone.
How do you know if you have athlete’s foot?
Athlete’s foot usually begins between the toes but can quickly spread to the soles, up the sides of the foot, and to the toenails. You might have it in one or both feet. Symptoms include:
- Itching, burning, or stinging
- A dry, scaly rash
- Peeling, cracked skin
- Inflammation that, depending on your skin tone, may look red, purple, or grey
- Blisters
- Thick, brittle toenails
A dermatologist can usually diagnose athlete’s foot by its symptoms and appearance. They may test a scraping of the skin in a lab to rule out other conditions such as dermatitis or excessively dry skin.
Who gets athlete’s foot, and how does it spread?
Anyone can get athlete’s foot due to its highly contagious nature. Most often, it is spread by going barefoot in warm, damp public places, such as locker rooms, saunas, and around pools.
Sweaty feet and tight-fitting shoes without ventilation can also create optimal conditions for fungal growth.
Prevention and self-treatment of athlete’s foot
Most athlete’s foot infections respond well to over-the-counter antifungal cream and medicated foot powder. The condition will typically clear up within a week or two. The following hygiene recommendations will help feet heal and avoid future infections:
- Air out feet often
- Wash feet daily with warm, soapy water, especially between the toes
- Avoid wearing damp socks and change socks regularly, especially when they get sweaty
- Switch shoes every day or so to allow them to completely dry out
- Wear sandals or shower shoes in public places
- Try not to scratch, as the fungi can spread to other parts of the body
If athlete’s foot is still bothering you after two weeks of self-treatment with over-the-counter antifungal products, you may need a prescription-strength medication. Contact Forefront and our board-certified dermatologists will develop a treatment plan that is safe, effective, and personalized for your health needs and the condition of your skin. This may include prescription-strength ointment or cream, an oral antifungal medication, or both.
For more information on athlete’s foot, or to make an appointment, call the Forefront office near you.