Athlete’s foot is a common fungal infection. The infection can impact people of all ages, including non-athletes. The vast majority of cases of athlete’s foot are caused by dermatophytes. A number of different fungi belong to the overall group of dermatophytes and are the same type that causes ringworm and jock itch. Athlete’s foot is preventable, so it’s important to take measures to ensure you don’t get it. Below you will find helpful tips for preventing athlete’s foot, and how to care for your skin if you do get it.
Tips for Preventing Athlete’s Foot
The fungi in athlete’s foot thrive in warm, moist, and closed environments. Because the skin condition can be persistent, it’s important to prevent athlete’s foot. Consider the following tips for preventing athlete’s foot.
Wash Your Feet Daily:
When you bathe, it’s important to wash your feet with warm, soapy water. Washing your entire foot, including in between your toes is necessary to help prevent athlete’s foot. Use a clean towel to dry your feet after the shower. Avoid sharing your towel as it can increase your risk for the skin condition.
Use Footwear in Public:
You should always cover your feet in public, including public pools, showers, and locker rooms. In addition to public areas, you should also wear shoes when walking on carpet. Carpets can easily help spread fungi between people. Public areas are filled with harmful bacteria and fungi that can be harmful to your skin.
Keep Your Feet Dry:
Because fungi easily spread in warm and wet environments, it’s important to keep your feet dry. Wearing shoes that are breathable or open can be helpful. However, some people may need to have closed shoes for their profession or who participate in certain physical activities, like sports or hunting. If you have to wear closed-toe shoes that easily become moist and warm, consider alternating your shoes to ensure they fully dry out after you wear them. You should also wear breathable socks to help reduce moisture. Bring a spare pair of socks so you can easily switch them if your feet get moist during the day.
Consider Foot Powder:
Antifungal foot powder is effective in preventing perspiration. This can keep your feet dry even if you have closed shoes. There are a number of over-the-counter antifungal foot powders that you can use.
Symptoms of Athlete’s Foot
If you experience any of the following symptoms of athlete’s foot, contact a podiatrist in Los Angeles. This is especially true if you have a diabetes diagnosis. It is crucial to contact a podiatrist as soon as possible due to the risk for diabetic-related complications.
- Inflamed skin that is red, purple, or gray on your feet
- Itchiness on your feet, especially at night after you take off your socks and shoes
- Dry and scaly skin on the bottom and side of your feet
- Cracked, peeling, or scaly skin between your toes
- Blisters, burning, or stinging anywhere on your foot
Athlete’s Foot Treatment in Los Angeles
If you experience any of the symptoms mentioned above, it’s likely time for athlete’s foot treatment in Los Angeles. Athlete’s foot treatment is highly effective with the help of a skilled podiatrist. The first step in treatment involves taking samples of the fungus from your skin. The sample is viewed under a microscope using a special test to determine what type of fungus it is. Depending on the type of fungus, oral and/or topical medication may be prescribed.
If you think you have athlete’s foot, contact Dr. Jamshidinia at Jamfeet Foot and Ankle Doctor. He is skilled in treating athlete’s foot and other foot and ankle-related conditions. Contact his office today for an appointment!