Athlete's Foot Care in Parma, Cleveland, Westlake, OH
Athlete’s foot is a fairly common, contagious condition that is caused by a fungal infection. The infection thrives in warm, moist environments, such as the inside of a shoe. It’s very common for athlete’s foot to develop in between the toes. Some key signs that you may be experiencing this condition include a burning, stinging, or itching sensation, as well as redness and flaking.
Athlete's Foot Causes and Prevention
Athlete’s foot is an extremely contagious infection caused by a fungus that results in itchy, burning, dry, and flaking feet. The fungus that causes Athlete’s foot is known as tinea pedis and thrives in moist, dark environments such as shower floors, gyms, socks and shoes, common areas, public changing areas, bathrooms, dormitory-style houses, locker rooms, and public swimming pools. Athlete’s foot can be difficult to treat due to its highly contagious and recurrent nature.
Athlete’s foot may spread by direct skin to skin contact, as well as by indirect contact, such as walking barefoot on a surface where the fungus lies. Environments such as locker rooms and communal showers are popular areas where athlete’s foot is known to spread. In order to better prevent yourself from catching athlete’s foot, it’s advised to take certain precautions. These precautions can include washing your feet often and drying them thoroughly, wearing clean cotton socks, washing your towels regularly, making sure you change your shoes and socks regularly, and avoiding walking around barefoot in public areas. It’s also advised to refrain from sharing footwear and to take footwear off as soon as possible after exercising.
Visit a Podiatrist
If athlete’s foot goes untreated, there is a high risk that it may spread from toe to toe. With this in mind, it’s highly recommended that you meet with one of our podiatrists for a professional diagnosis. Call or request an appointment today. Your podiatrist can give you information about treatment options that best suit your case.
