Athlete's Foot
What is it?
Athlete's foot is an extremely common fungal infection. You probably recognise it as a red, itching rash.
It's so widespread, that a great deal of new patients I see have had it for years without knowing.
It starts as mild peeling on the arch of the foot, before spreading up to the toes.
Before long it covers most of your foot with a flaking, red sock of skin.
It's so widespread, that a great deal of new patients I see have had it for years without knowing.
It starts as mild peeling on the arch of the foot, before spreading up to the toes.
Before long it covers most of your foot with a flaking, red sock of skin.
Signs and Symptoms
Symptoms include:
- Redness
- Itching
- Flaky skin
- White, soggy skin between toes
The classic symptoms are redness and itching.
The irritation goes right through the spectrum of intensity. From mild annoyance to something that stops you in your tracks.
The irritation goes right through the spectrum of intensity. From mild annoyance to something that stops you in your tracks.
Causes
Microscopic fungi cause athlete's foot. They lurk everywhere but particularly in hot, humid places such as bathrooms or old slippers!
It's the same group of fungi and yeasts that cause jock itch, ringworm and
It's the same group of fungi and yeasts that cause jock itch, ringworm and
Prevention and Treatment
Athlete's foot is very transmissible, but thankfully easy to cure. Use Lamasil, either the cream or powder (the best IMO).
Make sure though, that you wash all your slippers and socks and liberally douse trainers with footpowder.
Left untreated, athlete's foot can and does cause fungal nail infections.
So if you can't get rid of the itchy flaky skin, get in touch.
Make sure though, that you wash all your slippers and socks and liberally douse trainers with footpowder.
Left untreated, athlete's foot can and does cause fungal nail infections.
So if you can't get rid of the itchy flaky skin, get in touch.
