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ATHLETES FOOT (TINEA PEDIS)

Athlete's foot is a skin infection caused by a fungus, usually occurring between the toes, on the sole of the feet or the sides of the feet. It is characterized by itching and weeping blisters. Because the infection spreads easily in warm, wet and damp spaces, such as locker rooms and showers, it came to be called "athlete’s foot."

It can spread to other parts of the body, notably the groin and underarms, by those who scratch the infection and then touch themselves in those areas. It can also be the cause of chronic fungal infection in the toenails.

Other names or similar foot conditions:

• Tinea pedis
• Not all fungus conditions are athlete's foot. Other conditions, such as disturbances of the sweat mechanism, reaction to dyes or adhesives in shoes, eczema, and psoriasis, mimic athlete's foot

Symptoms:

• Blisters that itch or weep
• Red, dry, flaking skin accompanied by itching between the toes and/or the soles and sides of the feet

Signs to look for:

• Blister-like dermatitis
• Red, dry flaking skin
• Blisters that itch or weep

Possible Causes:

• Fungus that grows in warm, wet and damp spaces
• The fungus is usually picked up by walking barefoot in communal locker rooms, swimming pool areas, public showers, public baths, etc.

Goals:

• Medical or OTC treatment
• Wear footwear in communal damp and wet surfaces
• Control moisture in shoes: Shoes and socks that prevent growth of fungus foot
• Prevention

Solutions:

Other:

• Copper socks
• Wear synthetic socks that are made to wick moisture away from skin
• Place cedar shoe trees in shoes after each wearing so shoes always fully dry out
• Use foot anti-perspirant regularly
• Avoid tight hosiery and socks

• If using public facilities where others walk barefoot, protect feet with shower shoes
• Medical care and/or anti-fungal medication
• After showering, dry thoroughly between the toes

Sources Image: APMA.org Text: APMA.org, Foot.com