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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• 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.

• 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.

Flip-Flops (Creative Commons photo by sun dazed)

• 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:

1. Wash and dry your feet daily, and focus on the area between your toes.
2. Purchase and wear shoes that allow the moisture to escape, such as a sport shoe with a mesh body.
3. Change to dry socks when they become damp.
4. Wear sandals around swimming pools, and in showers and locker rooms.

• 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:

1. Application of an over-the-counter fungal cream, such as Lamisil AT, to the infected area.
2. Take an oral anti-fungal medication as prescribed by your podiatrist.
3. Spray the inside of your shoes with an anti-fungal spray, after each use.

• The alternative home remedy of an application of 25% or 50% tea tree oil, was found to be an effective antiseptic. The recommended application was twice daily, over a four week period of time.

• Take needed steps to prevent contracting tinea pedis, as a fungal condition of the skin is painful and may spread to other people in your life. The condition is difficult to eradicate, but with the proper treatment and your body's defenses, your feet will recover.

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