Athlete’s Foot Symptoms, Advice and more…
Why ‘Athlete’s’foot?
Athlete’s foot symptoms can often be misdiagnosed due to the common misperception that it is only an athlete who can suffer from it.
The fungus that causes the infection can be found in areas where athletes often reside; swimming pools, public showers, and locker rooms. People walk barefoot on these surfaces transferring the fungus onto their feet.
What is this fungus…?
We all have fungi present not only on our skin, but also inside our bodies – these fungi can be both good and bad – but most are harmless until conditions change.
In the instance that conditions and surroundings do change however, these organisms can multiply. This results in an infection, such as Athlete’s Foot. Otherwise, and more generally known as, a fungal infection.
What should I look out for?
Athlete’s Foot often begins as a rash, in the spaces between your fourth and fifth toes, and if left untreated, a rash may form on the bottom and sides of your feet. Furthermore; it can spread to the toenails, causing them to dry out and crumble – otherwise known as a fungal nail infection.
Watch out for signs of red, dry, flaky – sometimes scaly – skin which can often feel itchy.
As well as a rash in between your toes, you may notice other more serious symptoms, such as:
– Cracked skin
– Blisters
– Swelling
– Burning/stinging sensation
So how can I avoid it?
To start, if you scratch the infected skin then touch other parts of your body, you may spread the infection. It is important to treat the infection and always wash your hands thoroughly after touching your feet.
Secondly, avoid contact with people who have this condition. Skin to skin contact is a prime situation for the infection to spread from one person to another.
Also try to avoid indirect contact including sharing of towels and clothing.
Conclusion
If Athlete’s Foot symptoms are spotted early on, the infection is easily treatable. Remember to wash your hands and avoid sharing towels, clothing and so on. For more information, contact your pharmacist.
About the Author: Maria Bantellis is a health writer with a growing interest in Athlete’s foot symptoms
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