Everyone relies on their feet to get them through the day, but active people tend to rely on them a little more. Paying attention to the condition of your feet is important for overall foot health and care. Active people are more likely to face symptoms of athlete’s foot, because they sweat more than the average person; these symptoms include foot odor and fungus growth. Feet are loaded with sweat glands, which can produce up to a half-pint of moisture a day. Keeping feet dry and clean is the first step in preventing odor; ways to do this include washing your feet daily, regularly changing socks, and alternating footwear. The inside of shoes provides the perfect breeding ground for fungus. The damp and dark environment attracts organisms that cause athlete’s foot. The methods used for preventing foot odor also protect against festering organisms that lead to fungus. If you begin to notice distinct foot odor or fungus growth, it is advised to consult with a podiatrist so you can properly treat this condition and prevent the fungus from spreading further.

Athlete’s Foot

Athlete’s foot is often an uncomfortable condition to experience. Thankfully, podiatrists specialize in treating athlete’s foot and offer the best treatment options. If you have any questions about athlete’s foot, consult with one of our podiatrists from Family Foot and Ankle Care of Moriches. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality treatment.

What Is Athlete’s Foot?

Tinea pedis, more commonly known as athlete’s foot, is a non-serious and common fungal infection of the foot. Athlete’s foot is contagious and can be contracted by touching someone who has it or infected surfaces. The most common places contaminated by it are public showers, locker rooms, and swimming pools. Once contracted, it grows on feet that are left inside moist, dark, and warm shoes and socks.

Prevention

The most effective ways to prevent athlete’s foot include:

• Thoroughly washing and drying feet
• Avoid going barefoot in locker rooms and public showers
• Using shower shoes in public showers
• Wearing socks that allow the feet to breathe
• Changing socks and shoes frequently if you sweat a lot

Symptoms

Athlete’s foot initially occurs as a rash between the toes. However, if left undiagnosed, it can spread to the sides and bottom of the feet, toenails, and if touched by hand, the hands themselves. Symptoms include:

• Redness
• Burning
• Itching
• Scaly and peeling skin

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis is quick and easy. Skin samples will be taken and either viewed under a microscope or sent to a lab for testing. Sometimes, a podiatrist can diagnose it based on simply looking at it. Once confirmed, treatment options include oral and topical antifungal medications.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Moriches and Shirley, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.