Athletes Foot Prevention

What is athletes foot? It is a fungal infection that grows on human skin but especially the feet. This infection, once it takes a hold, grows and multiplies particularly in a dark, moist and warm environment. This same fungus may also cause 'jock itch' in the groin. Unfortunately, it is very contagious and may easily be picked up when walking barefoot in public places. It is a very common condition and many people have this problem.

What Does it Look Like?

Athlete's foot is a rash which appears on the foot but does not always have the same appearance. It often affects the skin between the toes and especially the two smaller toes where the rash starts to peel and crack. It can be very itchy. There will be redness, scaling, cracks and then blisters. Sometimes there are single, small patches of extremely itchy blisters.

What Can I do to Prevent Athlete's Foot?

There are many things you can do to avoid contracting athlete's foot. Firstly, make sure you wash your feet at least twice a day and it is important to get in between the toes. Then you must dry your fee thoroughly and again pay special attention to the area between the toes. Dust an antifungal powder on to your feet and into your shoes. The kind of shoes you wear is important. If they are closed shoes, it is a good idea to wear cotton or synthetic running socks which absorb sweat and change the socks frequently. The shoes should be leather or canvas. Plastic shoes are not suitable as your feet cannot breath and start to sweat.

It is best not to wear the same pair of shoes two days running - try to wear them in rotation. If it has been raining, take off the wet shoes and put on dry ones. You should avoid walking barefoot in public places such as gyms and showers - put on a pair or sandals to be safe. If another member of your family has athlete's foot, remember that it is very contagious and take steps to avoid any contact with the fungus in the shower or through shared towels.

Go to our Athletes Foot Treatment page

Resources

* http://www.ucsf.edu.org
* http://www.familydoc.org

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