What is athlete’s foot?
Athlete’s foot, also called tinea pedis or dermatophytosis, is a very contagious skin infection of the foot, very widespread and caused by fungi of the trichophyton type. It usually affects the skin between the toes and is favored by moisture. Redness appears in the folds, then the skin dries and peels.
Athlete’s foot requires a medical consultation because, if left untreated, it can progress and affect the soles of the feet or even the hands and nails.
What causes athlete’s foot?
Athlete’s foot is caused by the following factors:
- Barefoot walking on wet surfaces contaminated with fungus, such as swimming pools, locker rooms and gymnasiums;
- Lack of hygiene or even poor hygiene of the feet;
- Excessive sweating of the feet and excess moisture between the toes;
- Wearing shoes that are too tight, uncomfortable and promote humidity;
- Wearing wet socks;
- Sharing personal effects with others (towel, comb, etc.);
Who are the people at risk?
Some people are at greater risk than others. Among them are:
– People with diabetes;
– Old people ;
– People with a genetic and hereditary predisposition;
– People undergoing chemotherapy treatment;
What are the symptoms of athlete’s foot?
- Dry, scale-like skin between the toes;
- Presence of redness in the infected area with a burning sensation;
- The infection can spread to the sole of the foot, fingernails, hands, groin and scrotum;
- A nauseating odor sometimes emanates from the feet;
- Small blisters filled with fluid can sometimes appear;
- Itching between the toes;
How to prevent athlete’s foot?
- Consult a podiatrist as soon as the first symptoms appear;
- Avoid walking with bare feet in contaminated or humid public places (swimming pool, gymnasium, changing room, shower);
- Avoid wearing narrow and tight shoes;
- Keep their feet and nails clean and short at all times;
- Dry your feet after a bath;
- Avoid sharing your personal effects with another person;
- Wear cotton socks: nylon socks promote perspiration;
- Wear comfortable shoes, preferably leather;
- In case of infection, disinfect the bathroom and toiletries (bath mat, comb, towel, gloves).
- In short, avoid moisture affecting your feet.
What are the potential complications ?
Untreated athlete’s foot can lead to several complications:
- Bacterial cellulitis: This is the most serious complication. This is an infection of the deep layer of the skin with bacteria such as streptococcus or staphylococcus. Athlete’s foot can cause a more or less deep lesion, an ulceration of the skin. The infection can spread to the leg with fever and chills. Medical consultation is recommended.
- Onychomycosis: Over time, if left untreated, the infection can spread to the toenails and become difficult to treat. The nails thicken and become discolored.
What are the treatments for athlete’s foot?
Once your podiatrist has confirmed the diagnosis of athlete’s foot, he will prescribe a treatment adapted to your situation.
Topical antifungal treatment in the form of a cream, lotion, aerosol or powder,
If topical treatment is ineffective, antifungal tablet therapy is often prescribed.
Make an appointment …
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