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Chiropody & Podiatry Clinic
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‘insist on a degree trained podiatrist’

Athlete's Foot

Athlete's Foot (tinea pedis) is a very common form of fungal infection. Fungal infections may be caused by a number of different organisms, and can appear on both the skin and the nails.

Fungal infections can affect people of all ages. Children are likely to pick up the most common type - Athlete's Foot. It thrives in warm, damp environments (sweaty summer socks are ideal!), so with these conditions, anyone can catch it.

Although the condition is harmless, left unchecked the fungus can infect toenails, making them discoloured and brittle - a problem that's more difficult and lengthy to treat.

Athlete's Foot

Footwear creates the necessary conditions of moisture and warmth between the toes and communal activity permits the spread of infection. Swimming baths and changing rooms are the most frequent source of infection.

SYMPTOMS

  • Itching between the toes, especially the fourth and fifth toesRed, raw looking skin, which is often itchy

    • Skin that flakes, peels or cracks

    Sore, pus-filled, weeping rashOther fungal infections of the skins may appear as:·Small spot-like blisters in a rash on one or both feet

    Redness & dry scaly skin over the soles called moccasin typeToenails can also be infected, with the nail becoming thickened, brittle, and yellowish-brown in colour, becoming difficult to cut.

    HOW TO PREVENT FUNGAL INFECTIONS

    Wash your feet at least once a day with soap and tepid water, drying thoroughly and gently in between the toes.

    Choose socks made from natural fibres, preferably cotton. Change socks or stockings every day. Wear well-fitting shoes or sandals wherever possible, which allow the air to circulate (people who waer open-toed shoes or sandals rarely suffer from athlete's foot). Avoid footwear with rubber soles or man-made materials. Use an antifungal powder and spray sparingly between the toes.

    Never wear shoes for more than one day in a row. It takes longer than 24 hours to allow them to dry out thoroughly. Damp shoes are perfect for smelly feet and fungal infections to thrive in!

    WHAT TO DO

    For skin - there are many effective creams and powders on the market which you should use according to the manufacturers instructions. Consult your state registered chiropodist or pharmacist for advice on the most suitable product.

    For nails - toenail infections are more difficult to clear than skin infections. It is best for your chiropodist to thin down the thickened nail before using a treatment such as a paint or cream. The treatment will then reach the affected area in the most effective way. Tablets are available on prescription only. Get advice from your chiropodist or pharmacist and always read the label