Athlete's foot is a type of skin disease caused by a fungus that usually forms between the toes. It is a common and contagious disease in the community. It can cause itching, rash, redness, burning, blisters and sores on the feet. This condition, which is more common in men, can also occur in women and children under 12 years of age. Early diagnosis and treatment can lead to recovery without spreading.
The infectious skin disease, also known by its medical name tinea pedis, can develop on the toes, heels and toenails. There are also a number of risk factors that can cause this condition. In order to take precautions, it is important to choose appropriate and not too narrow shoes, to protect the feet in public areas, and to use socks individually and daily.
What Causes Athlete's Foot?
Foot fungus can be caused by many different factors. Most cases are caused by various fungi belonging to a group called dermatophytes. Fungi can thrive in closed, warm and humid environments. Fungi on the feet can be contagious.
It can spread through direct contact with an infected person, through towels, shoes or skin particles left on the floor. In addition, people with a weak immune system or diabetes are more likely to be infected if they have an open cut or wound on their feet.
Risk factors that can cause foot fungus are as follows:
- Keeping the feet moist or sweaty for a long time
- Long-term use of very narrow shoes
- Shared use of shoes or socks
- Skin or nail injuries
- Walking barefoot in common areas such as locker rooms or swimming pools
- Not drying the feet after showering
What are the Types of Foot Fungus?
Foot fungus types can be classified under three headings. These can be listed as follows:
Intertriginous: It is the most common type, also known as toe fungus. It mostly occurs on the smallest toes. It can cause itching, burning, rash and infection in other parts of the foot.
Hyperkerotic: This type can cause irritation, dryness, itching or scaling of the skin on the feet. If left untreated, it can cause the skin to thicken and split, spreading over the entire sole and sides of the foot.
Vesiculobullous: It is a rare type. It usually occurs as a result of blistering or bursting of blisters on the skin under the foot. If left untreated, it can also occur between the fingers, on the sole of the foot and on the top or bottom of the foot.
What are the Symptoms of Athlete's Foot?
Athlete's foot can affect one or both feet, and the symptoms can be in any part of the foot. However, it can often develop on the toes or between the toes. Common signs and symptoms include:
- Scaly, peeling or cracking skin between the toes
- Itching, especially immediately after taking off shoes and socks
- Inflammation that occurs depending on skin color
- Burning or stinging sensation
- Skin rashes and bad odor
- Blisters and blisters
In severe cases, fluid-filled blisters or open sores may develop. Blisters usually appear under the feet, but can develop anywhere. Open sores usually appear between the toes, but can also appear on the bottom of the feet. The feet may also develop a bad odor. Early diagnosis reduces the risk of spread and prevents complications that may arise.
How is athlete's foot diagnosed?
Athlete's foot is diagnosed by a physical examination typically performed by a specialist doctor. The specialist examines the patient's feet during the physical examination and can diagnose the condition after reviewing the symptoms experienced by the person. However, in some cases, a number of tests may be required to make a definitive diagnosis. A sample of the skin rash can be taken and analyzed in the laboratory. In cases diagnosed early, there is less risk of the infection spreading.
How is athlete's foot treated?
Treatment of athlete's foot can be done with creams applied on the skin in cases where it is diagnosed early. However, these infections are likely to recur. Cream treatment may not be effective in advanced fungal infections. In these cases, some fungicides taken orally may be recommended by specialist doctors.
Since the treatment of advanced cases may be long-term, patients should use the medications regularly. Antibiotic treatment may be applied for patients who are not diagnosed early and whose treatment is started late.
In addition to these, the conditions that should be considered to prevent fungus formation are as follows:
- Proper foot care on a daily basis
- Protection of feet in common areas and no bare feet
- Products such as slippers and towels are personalized and not shared
- Not leaving feet wet and drying them after taking a shower
- Avoiding prolonged use of narrow shoes
- Changing socks daily and preferring sweat-absorbing socks
- Personalization of foot care products
- Preferring breathable shoes, especially in summer