Athlete’s foot is a fungal skin infection that causes uncomfortable changes to the feet. It develops when fungus grows in warm, damp conditions, especially between the toes. The infection can also affect the soles and heels, where skin becomes dry and flaky. Symptoms include itching, redness, and peeling skin. Some patients develop blisters or painful cracks. Athlete’s foot can spread through contact with infected skin or contaminated surfaces. Public showers, swimming pools, and changing rooms are places where the fungus can spread. Despite its name, this infection affects more than athletes.

The appearance of athlete’s foot depends on where the infection develops. Skin between the toes may look white and soggy, while the heels can become rough and scaly. Cracks in the skin sometimes make standing or walking uncomfortable. The fungus can spread to the toenails, causing them to become thick or yellow. Nail infections can be harder to clear than skin infections. Athlete’s foot can spread to other areas of the body through contact. People with sweaty feet face a greater risk because moisture encourages fungal growth. Persistent symptoms deserve attention before the infection becomes more difficult to treat.

A podiatrist can examine the affected skin and determine whether athlete’s foot is causing the symptoms. Treatment depends on the location and severity of the infection. A podiatrist can recommend an antifungal cream or spray and explain how long treatment should continue. More severe infections can require prescription antifungal tablets. When the fungus reaches the toenails, a podiatrist can assess the nails and reduce their thickness to support treatment. The podiatrist can identify factors that encourage repeated infections and discuss ways to lower future risk. If you have symptoms of athlete’s foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment, which may include prescribed medication.

Athlete’s Foot

Athlete’s foot is often an uncomfortable condition to experience. Thankfully, podiatrists specialize in treating athlete’s foot and offer the best treatment options. If you have any questions about athlete’s foot, consult with one of our podiatrists from William Street Podiatry. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality treatment.

What Is Athlete’s Foot?

Tinea pedis, more commonly known as athlete’s foot, is a non-serious and common fungal infection of the foot. Athlete’s foot is contagious and can be contracted by touching someone who has it or infected surfaces. The most common places contaminated by it are public showers, locker rooms, and swimming pools. Once contracted, it grows on feet that are left inside moist, dark, and warm shoes and socks.

Prevention

The most effective ways to prevent athlete’s foot include:

• Thoroughly washing and drying feet
• Avoid going barefoot in locker rooms and public showers
• Using shower shoes in public showers
• Wearing socks that allow the feet to breathe
• Changing socks and shoes frequently if you sweat a lot

Symptoms

Athlete’s foot initially occurs as a rash between the toes. However, if left undiagnosed, it can spread to the sides and bottom of the feet, toenails, and if touched by hand, the hands themselves. Symptoms include:

• Redness
• Burning
• Itching
• Scaly and peeling skin

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis is quick and easy. Skin samples will be taken and either viewed under a microscope or sent to a lab for testing. Sometimes, a podiatrist can diagnose it based on simply looking at it. Once confirmed, treatment options include oral and topical antifungal medications.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in William Street in New York, NY, Forest Hills, NY, and Broadway in New York, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.