Going on a trip can be adventurous, relaxing and fun! It is always nice to get away to a new place or even somewhere you’ve been numerous times before. Catching a few rays and taking a dip in a refreshing swimming pool usually means that our feet are bare and exposed. Unfortunately, public spaces such as pool decks, can put our bare feet at risk of infection with viruses and microorganisms that cause common foot issues such as warts, and fungal infection.
Warts and fungus are caused by different types of microorganisms, BUT they are both contagious in nature and can spread from person to person or to various parts of the foot!
Warts
Warts are caused by the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) and can develop anywhere on the body including the sole of the foot. Plantar warts are known as verruca plantaris in the medical world. They can be pesky and hard to eradicate. Children and teenagers tend to be more susceptible to warts than adults. Not everyone who is exposed to HPV will develop a wart. A weak immune system or a break in the skin can increase a person’s risk for developing a wart.
Plantar warts, which are present on the bottom of the foot, are usually flat on the surface and have a cauliflower-like texture. Squeezing or applying pressure at the sides can elicit pain. Plantar warts often contain tiny black dots in the center. At-home treatments can sometimes be effective if used properly and with caution. Salicylic acid is a treatment that can be purchased over-the-counter and is typically applied to the wart as a solution or a cream and then covered with tape or a bandage.
Fungal infections
Fungus likes to live where it is warm, dark and moist. People with sweaty feet are more susceptible to developing a fungal infection. Fungus can infect nails and skin, and similar to warts, if a person’s immune system is compromised, they will be more susceptible to developing a fungal infection.
Fungus & skin
Athlete’s foot is a fungal infection of the skin and is also known as tinea pedis. Athlete’s foot can occur anywhere on the foot 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. The skin in between toes may be white, peeling, cracked, itchy, have a burning or stinging sensation, and can even appear inflamed. On the bottom of the foot, the skin on the sole and sides is typically itchy and may appear dry and scaly or may peel. Moccasin tinea pedis is often mistaken for dry skin.
Fungus & nails
Also known as onychomycosis (on-ih-koh-my-KOH-sis), fungal toenails can be uncomfortable, thickened, misshaped, discoloured, crumbly and smelly. Onychomycosis can be a source of embarrassment and insecurity and can even lead to skin breakdown due to excess pressure on the nail bed. Toenail fungus is evident in the nail plate or the toenail itself, but the infection resides underneath in the nail bed. If toenails are injured or if a person’s immune system is not working as well as it should, there is a greater risk for a fungal infection developing. Fungal toenails are infamously hard to eradicate. The challenge with treatment is penetration of the applied medication.
How BioPed can help
If you think you might have a wart or a fungal infection of your skin or nails, give your local BioPed a call today to find out how we can help you and your feet! To find a BioPed Registered Chiropodist or Advanced Footcare Nurse who can help you
