Athlete’s foot is an infection in one or both feet caused by saprophytic fungi feeding on the skin’s keratin, which is very plentiful on the feet; this is why they grow all over the feet in search of food.
The infection can develop from fungi already living on the feet or by being infected by other people.
The symptoms do nota ll apperar at the same time. The feet start to become sweaty, bad smelling, macerated, painful and cracked. Later they turn itchy, excessively web and scaly, and although the chages usually start to make themseleves felt between the toes, they can also spread to the toenails and ohter parts of the foot.
The basic conditions that encourage this type of infection to develop are heat and humidity. This means it is more likely to occur in the summer.
To avoid getting athlete’s foot, prevention is the key:
- Keep feet dry and avoid getting them too sweaty.
- Dry thoroughly between the toes ofter bathing.
- Change towels frequently and wash them in hot wáter.
- Do not share towels or clothing.
- In public swimming pools and showers, use rubber flip flops to walk from the changing área to the wáter.
- Avoid walking barefoot on carpets and rugs.
- Try to use shoes made from leather or natural materials to allow feet to breathe.
ASSSA Medical Services
The information published in this media neither substitutes nor complements in any way the direct supervision of a doctor, his diagnosis or the treatment that he may prescribe. It should also not be used for self-diagnosis.
The exclusive responsibility for the use of this service lies with the reader.
ASSSA advises you to always consult your doctor about any issue concerning your health.
