What is athlete’s foot?

Athlete’s foot — a.k.a tinea pedis or ringworm of the foot — is a skin condition caused by the fungus Trichophyton. It’s typically found on the soles of the feet and between the toes, but it can also affect the sides or tops of your feet.

What are the symptoms?

Think you have athlete’s foot? Be on the lookout for these symptoms:

• Itchy, dry skin

• Redness and irritation

• Scales or blisters, which can fill with fluid and bacteria, leading to infection.

If you notice any of these signs, schedule a doctor’s appointment as soon as possible.

What causes athlete’s foot?

Athlete’s foot is caused by fungus that’s mainly found in warm, moist environments, like gyms, saunas, fitness centers, nail salons and swimming pools. The fungus can even live in damp, wet socks or clothing. Although athlete’s foot is contagious, not everyone who comes in contact with the fungus will develop symptoms.

Athlete’s foot fungus can also affect other areas, such as the groin, inner thighs and scalp. If you touch your foot and then touch another part of your body, you can spread the fungus.

How can I prevent athlete’s foot?

There are various things you can do to fend off athlete’s foot, including:

• Remove wet or damp clothing, bathing suits, socks and shoes as soon as possible.

• Keep your feet dry, particularly between the toes. Dry them well after showering or washing them, and use foot powder to absorb moisture.

• Change socks frequently if your feet sweat a lot.

• Exfoliate your feet regularly to keep them smooth and free of dry, dead skin, which feeds the Trichophyton fungus. Keep Bliss Diamancel #10 Classic Buffer in the shower to smooth away rough calluses and dry heels.

• Wear moisture-wicking clothing or 100 percent cotton clothes and socks to absorb moisture.

• Never share your shoes or socks with others.

• Wear protective flip-flops in community showers, around pools or in locker rooms.

How can I treat athlete’s foot?

Visit a doctor or dermatologist for a correct diagnosis. If the fungus is indeed athlete’s foot, over-the-counter fungal treatments are available, including ointments, sprays and powders. Some products to try:

• NeoCeuticals Antifungal Problem Daily Foot Care Therapeutic Cream treats and prevents athlete’s foot. It relieves painful burning and itching, plus moisturizes dry, cracked skin.

• Pedinol Fungoid Tincture is used to treat athlete’s foot and other fungal infections, including ringworm.

• Stiefel Zeasorb AF Powder kills fungus and absorbs moisture while reducing irritation. Your doctor may prescribe oral or topical medications to kill the fungus or bacteria:

• Oral prescription medications, like Lamisil, Sporanox and Diflucan, are reserved for severe fungal infections. They kill the fungus that causes athlete’s foot. However, they can be costly and carry the risk of side effects.

• Topical prescription medications also kill fungus. Topical prescriptions include Naftin, Mentax, Monistat and Lotrimin.

Be sure to take all medication exactly as directed: If you stop treatment too soon, athlete’s foot may return or worsen. Your doctor may drain blisters to prevent them from rupturing and spreading the infection. If left untreated, athlete’s foot can spread to other areas or lead to a bacterial infection. Therefore, begin treatment as soon as symptoms emerge. Finally, remember that the fungus can live in damp, warm, dark environments, such as shoes. To prevent re-infection, treat the inside of your shoes with an anti-fungal spray or buy a new pair.

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