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Does the skin on your feet burn, itch, crack or form small blisters? If so, you may have a fungal infection of the skin, commonly known as Athlete's foot. Continue reading for some ideas on how to get rid of Athlete's foot.
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Introduction
- Athlete's foot is named as such because of the large number of athletes that developed this condition from showers and locker rooms. It is caused by a fungus, known as tinea pedis. Symptoms include reddened skin with blisters, itching, burning and scaling.To avoid contracting the fungal spores, wear sandals or "flip-flops" around swimming pools and other damp areas, and wash and dry your feet well, on a daily basis.
Step 1: Understand The Cause
- Understanding what allows a fungus to grow and continue to exist on your skin, will help you to eradicate it. Fungal spores thrive in a warm, dark, moist environment, so enclosed shoes encourage the fungus to grow and spread. The infection may also spread to the toenails and hands.
Step 2: Prevention
- Because the humid environment in shoes are an issue, air out your shoes and alternate with a different pair, to allow time for them to dry out between wearings. If your feet are excessively moist, ask your podiatrist for a prescription drying solution, such as Drysol. When you are able to, remove your shoes and socks and wear a sandal. Additional steps to prevent and treat the fungus are:
- Wash and dry your feet daily, and focus on the area between your toes.
- Purchase and wear shoes that allow the moisture to escape, such as a sport shoe with a mesh body.
- Change to dry socks when they become damp.
- Wear sandals around swimming pools, and in showers and locker rooms.
Step 3: Treat the Condition
- Consult your primary physician or podiatrist to determine if you suffer from the fungal condition. If it is determined that you have the skin infection, some treatments to consider are:
- Application of an over-the-counter fungal cream, such as Lamisil AT, to the infected area.
- Take an oral anti-fungal medication as prescribed by your podiatrist.
- Spray the inside of your shoes with an anti-fungal spray, after each use.