Athlete’s foot is a contagious fungal infection that mostly affects the feet, with the potential to spread to toenails and hands. The fungus thrives in warm, humid, and dark environments, which makes athletes more prone to the infection. Communal showers, swimming pools, and locker rooms are hotbeds for the bacteria.
Symptoms
- Scaling/Peeling skin
- Inflammation
- Swelling
- Dry skin
- Itching/burning in between toes
- Blisters
Treating Athlete’s Foot (tinea pedis) can be as simple as applying a topical or taking oral medication. Your podiatrist will recommend the best treatment plan for you. You can prevent Athlete’s Foot by practicing good foot hygiene. You can wash your feet every day with soap and water and make sure you dry them. When in public spaces such as public showers, always wear shoes and never walk barefoot. Walking barefoot can expose you to many different types of bacteria or fungus.
This information is provided by the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons.