Athlete’s foot is a fungal infection that occurs on the feet. Commonly among athletes (hence the name “athlete’s foot”), it’s itchy, contagious, and an overall nuisance for those infected. Luckily, Athlete’s foot isn’t dangerous, but treating it can be tricky.
Heavenly Foot Care is a mobile podiatry service that offers Athlete’s foot treatment in St. Catharines and the Niagara Region. If you’re experiencing Athlete’s foot, contact our friendly staff today to book an appointment.
What Causes Athlete’s Foot?
Athlete’s feet are caused when a fungus known as “tinea” grows on the skin of the foot. The infection can be caught by direct contact with the fungus or an infected person. Athlete’s are more susceptible to getting infected since the fungus typically grows in moist environments such as showers, locker rooms, and pools.
How Contagious Is Athlete’s Foot?
Though not everyone who comes into contact with the fungus becomes infected, it’s known that Athlete’s foot spreads quite easily. That’s why it’s important to always protect your feet when using a public washroom. If you’re using a locker room, or shower, make sure to wear thongs.
Symptoms Of Athlete’s Foot
There is a wide range of symptoms of Athlete’s foot. Some of the most common symptoms include:
- Itching between the toes
- Blisters
- Dry skin
- Cracking skin between the toes
- Tough red skin
- Abnormal toenail colour
If you’re experiencing any of the above symptoms, visit your doctor to conduct a thorough examination.
How To Diagnose Athlete’s Foot
One of the easiest ways to spot Athlete’s foot is a rash in between your toes. If you’ve previously used a public shower, swimming pool, or locker room and you’re developing itchy rashes on your foot, you’ve likely been infected with Athlete’s foot. The best way to accurately diagnose whether or not you’ve contracted Athlete’s foot is to visit your doctor.
Who Is At Risk?
Anyone can become infected with Athlete’s foot. Those who frequent public showers, swimming pools, and locker rooms are more likely to be infected since that’s where the tinea fungus tends to congregate.
Those who sweat excessively also have a higher chance of being infected. It’s recommended that you wear shoes that aren’t occlusive since they promote the growth of fungus. Athlete’s foot is contagious, so if you or someone you know has become infected, try not to come into direct contact with them or their clothing.
Treating Athlete’s Foot
Finding the root cause of Athlete’s foot is difficult. Therefore it’s tough for doctors to recommend a single form of treatment. The best thing you can do for your feet if they are infected with Athlete’s foot is to keep them dry. Try your best to avoid sweating, friction, or wearing dirty socks.
There are a few topical ointments you can apply to reduce the itching. Remember, the fungus thrives in moist environments, so some doctors may recommend you take an antiperspirant to minimize sweating. You can also apply powders that keep the feet dry in order to kill off the infection.
Contact Our Friendly Staff Today!
Are you experiencing Athlete’s foot? Heavenly Foot Care has years of experience with Athlete’s foot treatment in St. Catharines and the Niagara region. Reach out to our friendly staff today to learn more about our treatment options for Athlete’s foot. You can call us at (905) 931-9965 or email sherri@heavenlyfootcare.ca to book an appointment.