Athlete’s Foot or Tinea Pedis, is a fungal infection that can produce a red, itchy, stinging, flaky rash on the uppermost layer of skin between the toes and on top of the foot. The microorganism responsible for the Athlete’s foot is called Trichophyton, which loves moist, warm environments. Athletes’ feet can spread through skin-to-skin contact at the site where the fungus lives. It can also spread indirectly, through contact with a contaminated area or object such as shoes, towels, socks, and more. Untreated Athlete’s foot may spread the infection from toe to toe, or even to the hands in rare cases. If you believe you have Athlete’s foot call a podiatrist as soon as possible to determine what treatment option is best for you.
Athlete’s foot is an inconvenient condition that can be easily reduced with the proper treatment. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact one of the podiatrists from Bayshore Podiatry Center. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Athlete’s Foot: The Sole Story
An athlete’s foot, also known as tinea pedis, can be an extremely contagious foot infection. It is commonly contracted in public changing areas and bathrooms, dormitory-style living quarters, around locker rooms and public swimming pools, or anywhere your feet often come into contact with other people.
Solutions to Combat Athlete’s Foot
- Hydrate your feet by using lotion
- Exfoliate
- Buff off nails
- Use of anti-fungal products
- Examine your feet and visit your doctor if any suspicious blisters or cuts develop
Athlete’s feet can cause many irritating symptoms such as dry and flaking skin, itching, and redness. Some more severe symptoms can include bleeding and cracked skin, intense itching and burning, and even pain when walking. In the worst cases, this can cause blistering as well. Speak to your podiatrist for a better understanding of the different causes, as well as help in determining which treatment options are best for you.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Tampa, FL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.