Rash or Athlete's Foot Fungus?

Around 70% of the population will suffer from athlete’s foot at some time in their lifetime! Athlete's foot is the layman’s term used for tinea pedis, which is a very common skin condition that usually affects the sole of the foot and the skin between the toes. It is usually a scaly, red, itchy eruption and occasionally may be weepy and oozing. It affects the feet of all people, not just athletes. Although it is frequently caused by a fungal infection, it can also have an overlying bacterial infection that can become dangerous.

The dermatophyte family of fungus causes athlete's foot; and these can be contracted in many locations, including gyms, locker rooms, swimming pools, nail salons, and from contaminated socks and clothing. The fungi can also be spread directly from person to person by contact. Most people acquire fungus on the feet from walking barefoot in areas where someone else with athlete's foot has walked. Some people are simply more prone to this condition while others seem relatively resistant to it.

Without the proper environment (warmth and moisture), the fungus may not easily infect the skin. Fungus loves the winter when we spend most of our time in socks and sweaty shoes!

To avoid getting athlete’s foot fungus, there are some simple things that you can do:
1.   keep your feet clean and dry,
2.   avoid prolonged moist environments,
3.   use socks in airport security lines,
4.   remove shoes periodically and allow the feet skin to "breathe,"
5.   avoid walking barefoot, especially in public areas like swimming pools and gyms,
6.   avoid contact with known infected people,
7.   avoid soaking and contaminated tool usage at nail salons
8.   Disinfect old shoes and periodic weekly or monthly sprinkling of antifungal foot powder into shoes can also be helpful.
9.   It is imperative to take your own nail instruments, including nail files, to any public nail salon, unless you know the salon practices strict instrument sterilization and/or uses all disposable supplies.

Make athlete’s foot fungus take a hike! Disinfect your shoes regularly and make sure to wear moisture wicking socks this winter!