Athlete’s foot is an itchy, irritating, and uncomfortable skin condition that can be tough to combat successfully on your own. To fully eliminate the fungus causing athlete’s foot, you need help from an experienced podiatrist like those at Affiliated Foot & Ankle Care in Edison, Monroe, and Monmouth Junction, New Jersey. Use the online scheduler or call the location nearest you to make an appointment now.
Athlete's foot is a skin condition triggered by a fungus. Usually, athlete's foot develops between your toes, where you're most likely to retain moisture. Athlete's foot causes a variety of symptoms in your feet, including:
Although athlete's foot is typically confined to your feet, especially between the toes, it can spread elsewhere if you scratch it and then inadvertently transfer it to another part of your body.
Most athlete's foot sufferers pick up the fungi at swimming pool decks, gym showers, and locker rooms because fungi flourish in those types of damp, humid, areas. Athlete's foot can also be transferred to others by sharing nail clippers, wearing another person's socks, using dirty towels, and by skin-to-skin contact.
You have an increased risk for athlete's foot if you perspire heavily or if you wear damp socks and shoes.
Your Affiliated Foot & Ankle Care podiatrist can design a treatment plan based on your symptoms. Your treatment may include:
It's very important to keep your feet clean and dry as you heal from athlete's foot. Moisture encourages the fungi to multiply quickly, worsening the problem.
Your podiatrist may give you several tips to help you avoid athlete's foot in the future. First, take good care of your feet. Wash and dry them every night before bed, and apply antifungal powder before putting your socks and shoes on. Choose moisture-wicking socks, and change them daily.
When you're in public places, don't go barefoot. Something as simple as wearing a pair of flip-flops at the pool or in the gym shower can greatly minimize the odds of contracting athlete's foot. If you have any cuts, scrapes, or other injuries on your feet, disinfect and bandage them promptly. See your podiatrist if you start to experience any problems with your feet.
Athlete's foot can be intensely uncomfortable, but you don't have to suffer anymore. Call the Affiliated Foot & Ankle Care office nearest you, or book your appointment online now.