Athlete’s foot, known as dermatophytosis of the foot or tinea pedis ("foot fungus"), is a common skin infection that affects the feet. You don’t have to be an "athlete" to get it.
Around 5% of Canadians have a foot infection at any given time, including athlete’s foot. Men tend to be affected more than women, and children more than adults.
There are 4 types of athlete’s foot: moccasin-type, vesicular or blistered, interdigital (between the toes), and ulcerative.
Athlete’s foot is caused by a fungal infection. The fungi that infect human feet live on the skin, specifically on skin proteins called keratin. These fungi thrive in hot, tropical climates. Wearing tight, non-breathing footwear allows the fungi to flourish and cause athlete’s foot. The fungal organisms easily spread from one person to another in moist places where people walk barefoot, such as gym locker rooms and swimming pools. Cuts or blisters on the feet make it easier for these organisms to cause an infection.
Interdigital athlete’s foot is the most common type, usually starting between the 4th and 5th toes. Interdigital and moccasin-type athlete’s foot are commonly caused by the fungus T. rubrum. Vesicular or blistered athlete’s foot is believed to be due to an allergic reaction to fungal organisms, causing blisters to form. Ulcerative tinea pedis occurs in severe cases and can affect large areas, and there’s usually a secondary bacterial infection on top of the fungal infection.
Athlete’s foot that’s soggy, inflamed, and foul-smelling requires quick medical attention. If the foot is inflamed and your doctor has confirmed that there’s a bacterial infection, the infection and inflammation must first be treated before antifungals are used.
Topical antifungals (creams, solutions, gel, and lotions), either over-the-counter or prescription, are usually effective for uncomplicated cases of athlete’s foot. When these topical agents don’t work, antifungal pills are often prescribed. Some medications used to treat athlete’s foot contain both an antifungal and antibacterial ingredient to help speed up healing. In addition, special aluminum acetate wet dressings may be helpful when applied to vesiculated or macerated lesions. Shoes may also be treated with antifungal powders.
A foot condition that doesn’t clear up after appropriate treatment may not be due to a fungal or bacterial infection. The symptoms may be caused by some other type of skin disease. That’s why it’s important to see your doctor to confirm the presence of athlete’s foot.
The best way to prevent athlete’s foot is with good hygiene. This means keeping the feet cool and dry. After a bath or shower, it’s important to thoroughly dry between your toes. Here are some practical tips to keep your feet happy and healthy:
All material copyright MediResource Inc. 1996 – 2025. Terms and conditions of use. The contents herein are for informational purposes only. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Source: www.medbroadcast.com/condition/getcondition/Athletes-Foot
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