Athletes Foot
What is Athlete’s Foot?
Athlete’s Foot is a fungal infection that affects the upper layer of the skin of the foot, especially when it is warm, moist, and irritated. The easiest way to think of an Athlete’s Foot infection is to liken it to a gardener who is trying to germinate seeds. The fungus produces millions of spores, which will sit on the skin, in socks and stockings as well as your shoes.
They are extremely resistant to being killed. When a gardener wants to germinate the seeds, they will be placed in a warm, moist and dark environment; just like when our feet are inside shoes and particularly so between the toes.
Whilst Athlete’s Foot is generally between the toes it can also affect the soles and sides of your feet.
Why have I developed Athlete’s Foot?
How can you treat Athlete’s Foot?
At Total Foot Health, we know just how common fungal infections of the skin are and how they can affect everyday life. At their least troublesome, fungal infections cause itching and peeling of the skin; at their worst, fungal infections lead to serious secondary skin infections and nail disease.
The key to successful treatment is proper diagnosis and our podiatrists are experts in the diagnosis and management of this condition.
Firstly, we will advise the appropriate treatment for you.
Secondly, we will ensure good hygiene practices are in place in order to aid healing.
Finally, we will advise how to prevent re-occurrence of the problem.
Frequently Asked Questions about Athlete’s Foot
What is athlete’s foot?
Athlete’s foot is a fungal infection that affects the top layer of skin on the feet, commonly developing between the toes. It thrives in warm, moist environments like shoes and socks.
What causes athlete’s foot?
It’s caused by fungal spores that flourish in damp, enclosed areas. You can contract it from places like public showers, swimming pools, and gym changing rooms.
How do I know if I have athlete’s foot?
Typical signs include itching, peeling, and redness between the toes or on the soles and sides of your feet. In more severe cases, the skin may crack or blister.
Is athlete’s foot contagious?
Yes, very. It spreads through direct skin contact or indirectly through towels, bedding, footwear, and floors in communal areas.
Can athlete’s foot go away on its own?
It rarely resolves without treatment. Without intervention, it can lead to secondary infections or spread to the toenails.
What treatments are available at Total Foot Health?
We offer expert diagnosis, prescription-strength antifungal treatments, and personalised hygiene guidance to prevent recurrence.
How can I prevent athlete’s foot from returning?
Maintaining good foot hygiene, regularly changing socks, drying between your toes, and avoiding barefoot walking in communal areas can significantly reduce the risk.
Athlete’s Foot Treatment Comparison
| Treatment Method | DIY/Home | Over-the-Counter | Podiatrist Care (TFH) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Antifungal creams/sprays | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Accurate diagnosis | ✘ | ✘ | ✔ |
| Nail and skin management | ✘ | ✘ | ✔ |
| Advice to prevent reinfection | ✘ | ✘ | ✔ |
| Risk of recurrence if untreated | High | Moderate | Minimised |
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