Athlete’s foot, often referred to as tinea pedis, is a fungal infection of the foot. The cause of this affliction is fungi getting into the skin from hot, humid environments. It can be as simple as fungus growing inside of shoes or socks that one wears and sweats in. This ailment is common among teens and young adults as they tend to sweat more and wear shoes for longer periods of time. This infection can be picked up by walking barefoot in warm and humid communal areas, such as locker rooms and poolside. It also can come from not drying feet well after swimming, bathing, or exercising. Usually, athlete’s foot symptoms occur between the 4th and 5th toes. The skin can be cracked, sore, and itchy, appear white and soggy, and may flake. In advanced cases of athlete’s foot, the skin can become quite sore and even bleed. This condition can also spread to the soles and sides of the foot and affect toenails, which can become thick, brittle, and yellow. If left untreated, athlete’s foot can lead to secondary bacterial infections. If you suffer from athlete’s foot, it is important to see a podiatrist immediately. 

Athlete’s Foot

Athlete’s foot is often an uncomfortable condition to experience. Thankfully, podiatrists specialize in treating athlete’s foot and offer the best treatment options. If you have any questions about athlete’s foot, consult with one of our podiatrists from Kokomo Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality treatment.

What Is Athlete’s Foot?

Tinea pedis, more commonly known as athlete’s foot, is a non-serious and common fungal infection of the foot. Athlete’s foot is contagious and can be contracted by touching someone who has it or infected surfaces. The most common places contaminated by it are public showers, locker rooms, and swimming pools. Once contracted, it grows on feet that are left inside moist, dark, and warm shoes and socks.

Prevention

The most effective ways to prevent athlete’s foot include:

• Thoroughly washing and drying feet
• Avoid going barefoot in locker rooms and public showers
• Using shower shoes in public showers
• Wearing socks that allow the feet to breathe
• Changing socks and shoes frequently if you sweat a lot

Symptoms

Athlete’s foot initially occurs as a rash between the toes. However, if left undiagnosed, it can spread to the sides and bottom of the feet, toenails, and if touched by hand, the hands themselves. Symptoms include:

• Redness
• Burning
• Itching
• Scaly and peeling skin

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis is quick and easy. Skin samples will be taken and either viewed under a microscope or sent to a lab for testing. Sometimes, a podiatrist can diagnose it based on simply looking at it. Once confirmed, treatment options include oral and topical antifungal medications.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Contact Us . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.