Despite its name, athlete’s foot isn’t just a disease for athletes. It’s actually a type of fungus that’s highly contagious. Anyone can get it, even if they don’t play sports.
If you walk around a wet locker room or pool area without shoes on, you’re at risk of catching an athlete’s foot, which is caused by the same fungus that causes a jock itch.
What is an athlete’s foot?
Technically, an athlete’s foot refers to almost any inflammatory skin condition that affects the soles of your feet and between your toes. When you wear tight-fitting shoes or non-moisture-wicking socks, an athlete’s foot is more likely to occur. The most common cause of an athlete’s foot is a fungus, although yeast may cause some cases.
You are more likely to contract athlete’s foot if you frequently go barefoot in warm, moist environments.
You’ll know if you have athlete’s foot if your feet develop a red, scaly rash and are itchy, especially between your toes. The itchiest parts of your feet are usually after you take off your shoes. Athletes’ feet can cause blisters or ulcers, as well as dry skin that extends to the ankles, which is sometimes misdiagnosed as eczema.
Athlete’s foot treatment
In most cases, an athlete’s foot can be treated with over-the-counter antifungal medication; if it doesn’t clear up within two weeks, you should see a doctor.
Diabetes increases your risk of developing athlete’s foot, which may worsen. You should come to our office as soon as possible if you have athlete’s foot and diabetes, rather than trying to treat it by yourself. Diabetes patients may experience secondary infections after an athlete’s foot infection, such as fever, excessive redness, swelling, or drainage.
Athlete’s foot prevention
The most effective way to prevent athlete’s foot is to wear shoes in damp environments, such as locker rooms, shared showers, saunas, and pools.
Keep your feet as dry as possible, including airing them out when at home, and avoid sharing towels and clothing in any environment.
Moreover, you should wear proper shoes with ventilation, and cotton socks, and alternate your shoes when possible, allowing them to completely dry out between uses. If your feet become wet or sweaty, you should change into dry socks as soon as possible.
You can easily spread athlete’s foot infection to your hands and your groin, which will only make your discomfort worse. Avoid touching your athlete’s foot and use caution when using towels.
Athlete’s foot can be treated at home with over-the-counter antifungal medications such as Tinactin®, Lamisil®, or Lotrimin®.
You can contact our office at 949-588-8833, or visit our website at https://www.ocfootdoctor.com. Our offices are in Laguna Hills, Irvine, Mission Viejo, Aliso Viejo, Lake Forest, Foothill Ranch, and Costa Mesa.