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What is Athlete’s Foot and How Do You Treat It?

Athlete's foot (also called tinea pedis) is a fungal skin infection that causes itching, stinging, and burning between the toes or on the soles of the feet.

By Karen Asp | Experience LifeSeptember 9, 2018

What are the symptoms of athlete’s foot?:

Itching, stinging and burning between the toes or on the soles of the feet; itchy blisters; cracking and peeling skin, especially around the bottoms or sides of feet; nails that are thick, discolored or pulling away from the nail bed.

Is athlete’s foot contagious?:

Yes.

Triggers:

This fungal infection thrives in warm, moist environments like shoes, showers, gyms and locker rooms.

Treatment options:

For mild conditions, over-the-counter or prescription antifungal ointments, lotions, powders and sprays are available. If the infection is severe, your doctor may prescribe oral medication or a stronger topical antifungal cream.

Other ways to overcome:

Keep feet dry and use antifungal powder daily. Wear clean socks made of synthetic fiber to draw moisture away from feet. Then protect your feet in public places, wearing waterproof shoes in showers and using your own mat in yoga and Pilates classes. Also, alternate workout shoes to allow them to dry.

This was excerpted from “8 Common Skin Problems and How to Treat Them — Naturally”.