Are you noticing dry, flaky skin on the bottom of your feet? Don't ignore it! It could be a sign of Athlete's Foot, an incredibly common fungal infection that can lead to more serious problems if left untreated.
Athlete's foot is often accompanied by itching, but not always. If dry skin isn't addressed quickly, it can lead to discoloration of the toenails, which can be difficult to treat. Read on to find out more about Athlete's Foot and what you can do to prevent it.
What is Athlete's Foot?
Athlete's Foot is a common fungal infection that affects the skin on the feet and it doesn't matter whether you’re 20 years old or 80 years old, it can happen to anyone.
It is caused by the same fungi that cause jock itch and ringworm. Although Athlete's Foot usually affects the skin between the toes, it can also cause dryness and scaling on the bottom of the feet, which can be mistaken for just having dry feet. Unfortunately, if left untreated, Athlete's Foot can lead to toenail fungus, which is much harder to get rid of. So, it's essential to seek treatment with your local Roanoke Podiatrist as soon as possible if you suspect you have Athlete's Foot.
Worry your Athlete's Foot might have turned into toenail fungus? Here's more info on toenail fungus and how you can treat it.
What Are the Symptoms of Athlete's Foot?
When it comes to Athlete's Foot, many people assume that it always causes itching and a burning sensation. However, that isn't always the case. In fact, one common symptom of Athlete's Foot is dry skin on the bottom of the feet. If left untreated, this dryness can lead to the development of toenail fungus, which causes a yellow, white, or brown discoloration of the nail. A discolored toenail left untreated can become a very ugly and sometimes painful condition.
So keep an eye out for these common symptoms of Athlete's Foot:
- Cracked, flaking, peeling skin between toes, on the side, or the bottom of your feet
- Red and itchy skin
- Burning or stinging pain
- Blisters that ooze or get crusty
How Can I Prevent Athlete's Foot?
Preventing Athlete's Foot is not difficult, and the best way to start is by keeping your feet clean and dry.
Here are some simple tips that can help:
- Wash your feet daily: Make sure you wash your feet thoroughly with soap and water every day. Pay special attention to the area between your toes.
- Keep your feet dry: Dry your feet thoroughly after bathing or swimming. Wear well-ventilated shoes and allow your feet to breathe. Avoid wearing damp or sweaty socks and shoes.
- Use foot powder: Sprinkle some foot powder on your feet before putting on your socks and shoes. Foot powder helps absorb moisture and prevent fungal growth.
- Avoid walking barefoot: Walking barefoot in public places like gyms, locker rooms, and swimming pools can expose your feet to Athlete's Foot-causing fungus. Wear sandals or shoes in these areas.
- Don't share personal items: Do not share towels, shoes, or socks with others. Fungal infections can spread through shared items.
By following these simple steps, you can significantly reduce your risk of getting Athlete's Foot and other fungal infections. If you do notice any symptoms of Athlete's Foot, such as dry skin, itching, or discoloration, it's essential to get it treated promptly to prevent further complications.
How Can I Treat Athlete's Foot in Virgina?
If you suspect that you have Athlete's Foot, it is important to seek treatment with your Roanoke Podiatrist as soon as possible. Here are some tips for treating Athlete's Foot:
- Over-the-counter antifungal creams: There are a variety of over-the-counter antifungal creams available that can be used to treat Athlete's Foot. Look for creams that contain ingredients like miconazole or clotrimazole. An inexpensive over-the-counter anti-fungal cream such as Clotrimazole is a good option. Apply it to the bottom of your feet twice a day. If you have dryness between the toes, apply a small amount there as well.
If you have chronically dry feet, it’s a good idea to use an anti-fungal cream just in case fungus is present. And if you have diabetes, it’s best to consult with our office before using a product like this. Some people are just genetically predisposed to the dry version of Athlete’s Foot.
- Prescription medications: If your Athlete's Foot is particularly severe, your local Roanoke Podiatrist may prescribe stronger medications. These may include oral antifungal medications or prescription-strength topical creams.
- Keep your feet clean and dry: It is important to keep your feet clean and dry to prevent the spread of Athlete's Foot. Be sure to wash your feet regularly with soap and water and dry them thoroughly after bathing.
- Wear breathable shoes and socks: Avoid wearing tight-fitting shoes and socks, which can create a moist environment that is conducive to the growth of fungi. Instead, opt for breathable shoes and socks made from materials like cotton or wool.
- Treat toenail fungus: If you have a toenail fungus that has developed as a result of untreated Athlete's Foot, it is important to seek treatment with your local podiatrist for it as well. Treatment options may include topical medications, oral antifungal medications, or in severe cases, surgery to remove the infected nail.
By following these tips, you can effectively treat Athlete's Foot and prevent it from spreading to other parts of your body.
Remember, dry skin isn’t always just dry skin. Attend to it with a moisturizing cream; if that doesn’t work, switch to an antifungal cream.
Same Day Appointments Available at Our Roanoke Office Location
Please let us know how we can serve you best, and schedule your appointment today! Same-day appointments are available to help cure your athlete's foot.
