Athletes Foot

Athlete's foot is a fungal infection of the skin that can affect any area of the body. This fungus is termed athlete's foot or tinea pedis when affecting the feet. In fact, feet are most commonly affected because of the favorably dark, moist and warm environment of a shoe.

The term "athlete's foot" was coined due to the tendency of athletes to walk barefoot in facilities with high rates of fungal growth. Damp areas such as swimming pools, showers and locker rooms are optimal growth conditions for fungus. Warm weather is another contributing factor as feet tend to sweat more.

Athlete's foot often forms on the soles of the feet and in between toes in the form of itchy, dry, scaling skin. A bacterial infection can result, and in advanced cases, cause cracks, blisters and inflammation in the affected areas. Although the condition typically affects the feet, it can spread to the toenails (fungal nails) and other parts of the body.

The spread of athlete's foot can be prevented with good hygiene and avoiding walking barefoot. All feet surfaces, including in between toes, should be thoroughly washed with soap and dried daily. In the case of excessive sweating, change your socks throughout the day to keep your feet as dry as possible. Alternating shoes daily is advisable to let them dry out retained moisture. Dr. Radovic may recommend anti-fungal powders, sprays or creams as suitable treatments for you.