November 15, 2024
The fungi thrive in closed, warm, moist environments and feed on keratin, a protein found in hair, nails, and skin. Rarely, an athlete's foot can be caused by fungi like yeast. Walking barefoot in warm or damp public places such as locker rooms, saunas, swimming pools, and communal showers may increase your chances of getting an athlete's foot. You also may be at more risk of getting athlete's foot if you often wear closed shoes, sweat heavily, not drying your feet after showering (especially between the toes), wearing the same socks for long period or share mats, rugs, bed sheets, clothes, or shoes with someone who has a fungal infection. You can also be at risk of getting athlete's foot if you have certain medical conditions, like if you have an impaired immune system or diabetes and an open cut or sore on your feet.
Is an athlete's foot contagious?
Athlete's foot is mildly contagious. It can be spread through direct contact with the infection and by skin particles left on towels, shoes, or floors.
Athlete's foot can affect one or both feet. Common signs and symptoms are:
If untreated, symptoms could extend to the following:
Ease the symptoms and prevent recurrences with these tips:
There are a few options when it comes to treating an athlete's foot. Depending on the severity, you may be able to treat it with over-the-counter medication, or if more serious, you may need to see your for more aggressive treatment.
Medical treatment options include:
It’s important to finish your full course of medicine. If you stop too soon, your athlete’s foot may come back and be harder to treat. You should continue to use the medications for as long as prescribed by the doctor, to avoid re-infection.
You may see your skin become thicker and whiter, and you may develop blisters filled with foul-smelling fluid. An athlete's foot usually doesn't lead to severe complications but if left untreated, an athlete's foot can affect other parts of the body. The infection can spread, through hands, from the feet to other parts of the body. It often becomes a major annoyance, making it more difficult for sufferers to enjoy day-to-day life. Athlete’s foot does not go away on its own and should be treated. Make an appointment to see our podiatrist immediately, you may reach us in Bethesda Maryland to schedule an appointment.