Foot Related Conditions
Athlete’s Foot
Have you ever noticed your feet often itch or become scaly in appearance? If you have, you may be suffering from a fungal skin infection. Fungus commonly attacks the feet because shoes create a warm, dark, and humid environment, encouraging fungus growth. The warmth and dampness of swimming pools, showers, and locker rooms, are also breeding grounds for fungi.
Athlete’s Foot, a fungal skin infection, is often picked up in locker rooms and showers. The name came from a firm trying to sell anti-fungal creams. Previously, it was called “policeman’s foot,” but it seems people like to think of themselves more as athletes than policemen.
However, not all fungus conditions are Athlete’s Foot. Other conditions may also mimic a fungal infection, such as eczema, psoriasis, or disturbances in the sweat’s reaction to dyes or adhesives in shoes.
ath•lete’s foot
A contagious fungal skin infection caused by a species of Trichophyton or Epidermophyton that usually affects the feet, especially the skin between the toes, and is characterized by itching, blisters, cracking, and scaling. Also called tinea pedis.
So how do you know if you have a fungal skin infection?
The signs and symptoms of a fungal skin infection can occur on their own or in combination:
- Redness
- Cracking skin
- Itching
- Scaling
- Inflammation
- Blistering
Blisters often lead to cracking of the skin. When blisters break, small raw areas of tissue are exposed, causing pain and swelling. Itching and burning may increase as the infection spreads. Fungal skin infections may spread to other parts of the body, notably the groin and underarms, by those who scratch the infection and then touch these areas of the body. The organism causing Athlete’s Foot may persist for a long time. Consequently, the infection may spread by contaminated bed sheets or clothing to other parts of the body.
So what will the Chiropodist do?
Suppose an apparent fungus condition does not respond to proper foot hygiene and self-care, and there is no improvement within two weeks. If this sounds like you, don’t panic, we can help. Consult our office, and our team of chiropodists will determine if a fungus is the cause of the problem. Often a prescription topical is necessary to cure the infection.
Quick tips for prevention of fungal skin infection:
- Practice good foot hygiene
- Avoid walking barefoot; use shower shoes or Crocs
- Wear light and airy shoes
- Wear socks that keep your feet dry, and change them frequently if you perspire heavily
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