Causes of Athlete’s Foot

The fungi thrive in closed, warm, moist environments and feed on keratin, a protein found in hair, nails, and skin. Rarely, an athlete's foot can be caused by fungi like yeast. Walking barefoot in warm or damp public places such as locker rooms, saunas, swimming pools, and communal showers may increase your chances of getting an athlete's foot. You also may be at more risk of getting athlete's foot if you often wear closed shoes, sweat heavily, not drying your feet after showering (especially between the toes), wearing the same socks for long period or share mats, rugs, bed sheets, clothes, or shoes with someone who has a fungal infection. You can also be at risk of getting athlete's foot if you have certain medical conditions, like if you have an impaired immune system or diabetes and an open cut or sore on your feet.

Is an athlete's foot contagious?

Athlete's foot is mildly contagious. It can be spread through direct contact with the infection and by skin particles left on towels, shoes, or floors.

Symptoms of Athlete’s Foot

Athlete's foot can affect one or both feet. Common signs and symptoms are:

1. Scaly, peeling, or cracked skin between the toes.
2. Itchiness, especially right after taking off shoes and socks.
3. Inflamed skin might appear reddish, purplish, or grayish, depending on your skin color.
4. Dry, scaly skin on the bottom of the foot that extends up the side.
5. Burning or stinging sensation between the toes or on the sole of the foot.

If untreated, symptoms could extend to the following:

1. Bleeding
2. Unpleasant foot odor
3. Oozing blisters between the toes, or on the foot
4. Foot pain
5. Fungal nail infections

Prevention of Athlete’s Foot

Ease the symptoms and prevent recurrences with these tips:

1. Keep Feet Dry: Dry your feet thoroughly after showering or bathing and go barefoot whenever possible.
2. Keep Shoes Dry: Wear lightweight and well-fitted shoes. Avoid tight shoes and footwear made of materials such as rubber and vinyl that impede airflow. Allow time for shoes to dry before wearing them again.
3. Change Your Socks Often: Whenever your feet feel sweaty or damp, change your socks. You can bring an extra pair of socks so that your feet never remain moist for too long. Natural cotton and moisture-wicking materials are best.
4. Safeguard Your Feet In Public Spaces: Avoid walking in areas of high transmission like pools and locker rooms, or wear sandals or shoes in public places.
5. Nurture Your Feet: Keep your nails trimmed, soak your feet with Epsom salts, wash your feet twice daily, and use antifungal foot powder to keep your feet dry.
6. Don’t share shoes, socks or towels. Switching from synthetic to cotton socks and to breathable shoes.

Treatment of Athlete’s Foot

There are a few options when it comes to treating an athlete's foot. Depending on the severity, you may be able to treat it with over-the-counter medication, or if more serious, you may need to see your for more aggressive treatment.

Medical treatment options include:

1. Antifungal cream, gel, ointment, powder, or spray – available over the counter. 
2. Antifungal tablets – available on prescription from your podiatrist.
3. Fungal nail treatment – if the infection has spread to the nails.

It’s important to finish your full course of medicine. If you stop too soon, your athlete’s foot may come back and be harder to treat. You should continue to use the medications for as long as prescribed by the doctor, to avoid re-infection.

What happens if you ignore an athlete's foot?

You may see your skin become thicker and whiter, and you may develop blisters filled with foul-smelling fluid. An athlete's foot usually doesn't lead to severe complications but if left untreated, an athlete's foot can affect other parts of the body. The infection can spread, through hands, from the feet to other parts of the body. It often becomes a major annoyance, making it more difficult for sufferers to enjoy day-to-day life. Athlete’s foot does not go away on its own and should be treated. Make an appointment to see our podiatrist immediately, you may reach us in Bethesda Maryland or Dallas, Texas to schedule an appointment. 

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