Athlete’s Foot (Tinea Pedis / Fungal Infection)

Athlete’s Foot (Tinea Pedis)

Athlete’s Foot ( Tinea Pedis) is often the problem when the foot feel hot, irritated and itchy.  Athlete’s Foot is essentially a fungal infection of the skin of the feet and can occur on the soles of the feet and between the toes.

Athlete’s Foot occurs when the feet have been enclosed for too long in a dark, warm, moist environment such as trainers, socks, or tight fitting shoes. If left too long this becomes a place with ideal conditions for this fungus to grow.

What are the symptoms of Athlete’s Foot?

• Dry, sore, cracked, skin occurring between the toes or on underside of the toes are all symptoms of Athlete’s Foot
• Often accompanied by a burning sensation
• The skin can split and fungal infection can develop in worst cases
• Often accompanied by sweaty feet

What are the common causes of Athlete’s Foot?

• Athlete’s Foot is caused by fungi. Fungal infections can be caught from soil,  animals  but the most common source of athletes foot infection is the passing of the fungus from one person to another.
• The infection is contracted via shared changing rooms, gym floors, pools and towels. In other words you “catch” it. Small flakes are left that others contact.
• Athlete’s Foot can occur in very dry skin conditions where the skin has lost its oils (for example, after wearing sandals all summer with prolonged exposure causes the skin to dry out).

What other skin complaints can look similar to Athlete’s Foot?

• Psoriasis
• Eczema
• Contact dermatitis
• Verrucae

What home treatments can you try before attending a podiatry consultation?

• It is essential to maintain good foot hygiene by washing you feet daily and thoroughly drying them, especially between the toes
• Change your socks and or tights daily. Cotton and wool socks are ideal as they are natural breathable materials
• If your feet are sweaty take measure to reduce the sweating, anti antiperspirant sprays and talcs can be purchased from pharmacies and supermarkets
• Wear flip flops in communal areas like swimming pools
• Wearing latex gloves when applying anti fungal creams will prevent infection from spreading onto the skin of the hands

What treatment can our podiatrists provide for Athlete’s Foot?

1. Firstly our podiatrists will perform a physical examination and give you a diagnosis. It is essential to form an accurate diagnosis as not all skin infections and or rashes on the feet are caused by Athlete’s Foot.
2. Provide advice to maintain good foot hygiene
3. Recommend suitable anti-fungal creams, sprays and powders and the correct method of application
4. For infections that have resisted over the counter creams and sprays our podiatrists can recommend a suitable course of anti-fungal tablets (this is rarely required).

What treatment should I book if I have problems with Athlete’s Foot?

If you are suffering from an Athlete’s Foot infection or have symptoms that sound similar to those described above you are recommended to book a routine podiatry appointment with one of our HCPC registered podiatrists.