Athlete’s foot is a fungal infection of the skin and is also known as tinea pedis. Fungus likes to live where it is warm, dark and moist and as a result, people with sweaty feet are more susceptible to developing this type of infection. Athlete’s foot can be uncomfortable, smell bad and may even lead to other types of infections which could interfere with treatment and recovery. Fungal infections are contagious and can be spread from person-to-person. Additionally, if your immune system is compromised, you may also be more at risk.
Athlete’s foot can occur anywhere on the body but is especially common in between the toes and on the bottoms of the feet where the moisture level tends to be higher. A fungal infection on the bottom of the foot is known as moccasin tinea pedis as it typically covers the sole and sides of the foot like a moccasin or slipper.
What Causes Athlete’s Foot?
Athlete’s foot is caused by a particular fungus known as dermatophytes. It is referred to as “Athlete’s foot” because it’s often picked up in places that athletes frequent, such as showers, gyms and change rooms. These places are not the only sources of infection though. As mentioned previously, fungus lives where it is warm, dark and moist. Our socks and shoes are the ideal breeding ground for fungus to set up shop! When skin is too moist, it tends to be weaker and may be more susceptible to fungus and other microorganisms.
What Does Athlete’s Foot Feel and Look Like?
In between the toes:
- The skin in between toes may appear white, peeling, cracked, and could feel itchy, have a burning or stinging sensation.
- Inflamed skin in between toes can present as red, purple or grey.
- White indicates the skin is macerated or wet.
Bottoms of the feet:
- The skin on the sole and sides of the foot is typically itchy and may appear dry and scaly with peeling skin. Moccasin tinea pedis is often mistaken for dry skin.
- This type of fungal infection tends to be long-lasting and difficult to eradicate, making proper diagnosis and prompt treatment imperative.
- In more severe cases, small blisters or openings in the skin can develop as part of the rash.
How Can Athlete’s Foot be Treated?
It is important to seek treatment from a Primary Care Professional or a BioPed Medical Footcare Clinician if this skin issue becomes persistent or causes discomfort. Diabetes or a suppressed immune system can increase risk for complications as this type of infection can easily worsen and spread.
- At home, it’s important to wash and dry in between the toes daily.
- If moisture persists, rubbing alcohol can help to dry up overly wet tissue. Applying it with a cotton tip applicator and allowing it to dry before putting socks on, can help!
- Over-the-counter and prescription antifungal creams and solutions are effective when applied as directed.
- If moccasin tinea pedisdoes not resolve with topical treatments, an oral medication may be required to cure the infection.
Your Shoes Need Treatment Too!
Firstly, do not share shoes, this type of infection is contagious! Allow shoes to air out between wears and change socks frequently if feet are sweaty. Clean Sweep spray can be used in shoes to disinfect and eradicate the presence of microorganisms. If used properly, odour and fungal burden will dissipate quickly! Ultraviolet lights made to fit in shoes are also an effective way of making sure fungus is gone, lessening the chance of reinfection.
How Can BioPed Help?
If you think you might have a fungal foot infection, we can help! We have treated our clients for many conditions, including Athlete’s foot. Give your local BioPed Footcare & Orthotics a call today to find out the next best steps and get the care your feet deserve!
