Tired of Itchy, Burning Feet? Understanding Athlete's Foot for Good Foot Health

Introduction

Athlete's foot, also known as tinea pedis, is a common fungal infection of the feet. It is estimated that up to 70% of the population will be infected with athlete's foot at some point in their lives. While the name implies it is only an issue for athletes, anyone can get this uncomfortable and contagious infection. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for athlete's foot will allow prompt treatment and prevention of spreading it to others.

Definition of Athlete's Foot

Athlete's foot is a fungal infection caused by dermatophytes, a type of fungi commonly found on skin. Dermatophytes feed on the keratin protein found in hair, nails, and outer skin layers. The medical term for athlete's foot is tinea pedis. This fungal infection thrives in warm, moist environments like pools, showers, and locker rooms. Fungal spores can survive for months in these areas. Walking barefoot in areas where the infection is present allows the fungus to enter through cracks or cuts in the skin. It often starts between the toes but can spread to the bottom and sides of the feet as well.

Causes of Athlete's Foot

There are several factors that increase the risk of developing athlete's foot:

• Warm, moist environments - The fungi thrive in warm, moist places like gyms, pools, showers. Going barefoot in these areas exposes feet to the fungal spores. Sweaty shoes and socks also provide an environment for the fungus to grow.
• Shared surfaces - The fungal spores can survive on floors and surfaces for long periods. Using shared showers, lockers, and pools increase exposure.
• Minor skin or nail injuries - Cuts, cracks, and ingrown toenails create an entry point for the fungus.
• Weakened immune system - Those with weakened immune systems are more prone to fungal infections.
• Diabetes - High blood sugar provides an environment fungus can flourish.
• Smoking - Smoking restricts blood flow, slowing healing and making feet more prone to infection.
• Going barefoot - Not wearing shoes or sandals in public areas like gyms, pools, showers increases risk.

Symptoms of Athlete's Foot

The signs and symptoms of athlete's foot vary from person to person. Common symptoms include:

• Itchy, red, cracked skin - Most often seen between the toes but can appear anywhere on the feet
• Stinging, burning pain - Some experience a stinging or burning sensation between the toes or on the soles.
• Blisters and thickened skin - Fluid filled blisters and thick, crumbling skin can form.
• Scaling and peeling - Excess skin may shed and peel.
• Odor - An unpleasant odor is sometimes present along with dampness between the toes.
• Nail discoloration - In advanced cases, the toenails can thicken, discolor and detach from the nail bed.
• The type of symptoms often depends on the type of tinea pedis:
• Interdigital - Found between the toes, common symptoms are itching, redness, scaling, odor, and dampness.
• Moccasin - Covers the bottom and sides of feet as well as the toes. Dry, scaly, thickened skin and cracking are common.
• Vesicular - Produces itchy blisters on the instep and toes.

Treatment Options for Athlete's Foot

Several over-the-counter and prescription medications are available to treat athlete's foot. Treatment time can vary from weeks to months based on severity. Some options include:

• Over-the-Counter Antifungal Creams, Sprays, Powders

• Prescription Antifungal Medications

• Natural Remedies

• Over-the-Counter Pain Medications

Prevention of Athlete's Foot

Preventing athlete's foot involves keeping the feet clean and dry. Recommended prevention tips include:

• Wear shower shoes in public showers, pools, locker rooms
• Change socks daily and avoid tight hosiery
• Alternate shoes daily to allow them to fully dry
• Disinfect shoes using antifungal sprays or UV shoe sanitizers
• Keep toenails trimmed short
• Wear clean socks made of cotton or wool to absorb moisture
• Dust feet daily using medicated or antifungal powder
• Apply antifungal spray after exercise or perspiration
• Avoid sharing towels, shoes, socks or nail clippers with others
• See a podiatrist for persistent cracks, blisters, or cuts which can allow fungus to enter

Conclusion

Athlete's foot is an extremely contagious but treatable fungal infection of the feet. Understanding what causes it and preventing exposure are crucial first steps. Recognizing the signs and symptoms early allows prompt treatment with over-the-counter or prescription antifungal medications. Combining medication with good foot hygiene and disinfecting shoes and socks can help eliminate the stubborn fungus. Preventative measures help stop the spread to other areas of the body or other people. Seeking medical care for advanced, chronic or recurring athlete’s foot is advised. Here at Step Forward Foot and Ankle, we treat athletes foot infections daily and can help you find the right treatment, effectively eradicating this infection permanently.

Peter Awad, DPM FACFAS

Step Forward Foot and Ankle

“Leave your pain behind”