Athlete’s Foot
Treatments
How to get rid of Athlete’s
Foot
Athlete's foot, a skin infection in the foot, is caused by a
particular fungus called Trichophyton. This fungus can thrive
and infect the upper layer of the skin when the feet, or other
areas of the body, stay moist, warm and irritated.
Athlete foot is caused by the ringworm fungus, and the fungus
that causes Athlete foot can be found on floors and in socks
and clothing. The fungus can be contagious, although without
proper growing conditions (a warm, moist environment), the
fungus will not infect the skin. Most of the population will
experience athlete’s foot at some point in their lives.
Athlete’s Foot Symptoms
The symptoms of Athlete foot include itching and burning
feet, peeling skin, and cracking, pain, and bleeding in some
more severe cases.
Bacteria can also invade the skin when the skin is injured by
the fungus. These bacteria can cause a bad smell, and this
bacterial infection is especially likely to occur in the
elderly, individuals with diabetes, individuals with chronic
leg swelling, those who have had veins removed (such as for
heart bypass surgery), and patients with impaired immune
systems.
Athlete’s Foot Treatments
There are two main ways to treat Athlete’s Foot. The main
first step is to make the infected area less suitable for the
Athlete foot fungus to grow by keeping the area clean and dry.
Buy shoes that are leather or other breathable material to
minimize the moistness inside the shoe. Keep your feet as clean
and dry as possible when not confined in shoes or socks. Also,
absorbent socks that wick water away from your feet such as
cotton socks will help. Try using powders, especially medicated
powders to keep your feet dry. Finally, your feet can be soaked
in a drying solution of aluminum acetate.
The second part of treatment is to use some effective
antifungal creams. You should continue to use these creams for
up to four weeks. Ask your doctor or physician for
recommendations for antifungal creams.
When should I seek medical care?
See your healthcare practitioner if you notice any redness,
increased swelling, bleeding, or if your infection is not
clearing up. An antibiotic may be necessary if a bacterial
infection is also occurring.
Conclusion
Athlete’s Foot is a condition that causes your feet to itch,
burn, scale, and feel painful. This is a condition that is
caused by a ringworm fungus. It is easily treatable through
antifungal medications that are available over the counter. You
can keep your feet dry as possible by wearing leather shoes and
cotton socks. Seek medical care if you notice bleeding,
swelling, redness, or signs that your infection is getting
worse or not healing.

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