Athlete’s foot might sound like something only athletes get, but it is a common skin problem that can affect anyone. Imagine wearing your favorite sneakers, but your feet feel like they are on fire because of a persistent itch. That is what athlete’s foot causes for most people. It can even make your skin red, crack, and even hurt. This is why taking care of your feet is important.
In this article, we will walk through some proven athlete’s foot treatment options that can help.
What is an Athlete’s Foot?
Athlete’s foot is a skin infection caused by fungus. Fungi love warm and moist places, like sweaty shoes, making your feet the perfect spot for them to grow.
When fungus is allowed to fester and grow, it can cause your skin to itch, peel, and feel sore.
Athlete’s Foot Treatment Options
Here are some things to help you get started with athlete’s foot treatment:
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Keep Your Feet Clean and Dry
Keeping your feet clean and dry is key. Fungi hate dry places, so after washing your feet, dry them well, especially between your toes.
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Wash Your Feet Regularly
Use soap and water to wash your feet every day. This helps keep the fungi count low and your feet feeling fresh.
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Use Antifungal Medications
Over-the-counter antifungal creams, sprays, or powders can help your feet. They work by killing the fungi that cause itchiness and discomfort.
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Creams and Sprays
Apply these directly onto the affected areas as instructed on the package. Be consistent with the application for the best results.
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Powders
Antifungal powders are great for keeping your feet dry. Sprinkle some in your shoes and socks for extra protection.
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Choose the Right Footwear
Believe it or not, your choice in footwear can affect your risk of getting athlete’s foot. Opt for roomy shoes that allow your feet to breathe. This reduces moisture build-up, which fungi love.
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Avoid Sharing
Never share shoes or socks with others. Athlete’s foot can easily spread from person to person.
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Home Remedies
Some people find success with home remedies like soaking their feet in a vinegar solution or applying tea tree oil.
While these may help, consulting a healthcare provider before trying something new is always a good idea.
When to See a Doctor
Sometimes, symptoms do not go away no matter how hard you try. That is your cue to call a foot specialist.
Here is when you should think about making an appointment:
Relentless Itchiness
If you have been using over-the-counter treatments and your feet still itch intensely after two weeks, you need a foot doctor.
Pain
Athlete’s foot can cause pain, especially if infected. If it hurts to walk or you see discharge (a white substance leaking), see a podiatrist.
If You Get Sick
In rare cases, fungus can make you feel sick, give you a fever, or spread to other body parts. If you feel unwell or symptoms spread to other parts of the body, see a doctor.
Don’t hesitate to ask for a doctor’s advice if your feet are giving you a hard time.
Medical Athlete’s Foot Treatment Options
When over-the-counter creams and sprays do not cut it, your doctor might suggest stronger medicine to fight athlete’s foot.
Here is what they might recommend:
Prescription Creams
Prescription creams are stronger than over-the-counter options. These creams will have a stronger effect against the fungus.
Oral Medications
Sometimes, doctors prescribe pills to take orally. These medications can help fight the fungus from the inside out.
Topical Steroid Creams
If your skin is inflamed and sore, a doctor might prescribe a cream with steroids to reduce swelling and redness.
Antibiotics
If your athlete’s foot becomes infected with bacteria (which is different from the fungus causing the itch), you might need antibiotics. Antibiotics kill bacteria and help heal infections.
Doctors have many tools to help fight athlete’s foot, so if you are struggling, do not be shy about getting their advice. You can say goodbye to that itch with the right treatment and keep your feet happy and healthy.
Personalized Athlete’s Foot Treatment in Warwick, Middletown, & Dartmouth, RI
Personalized foot care is important, and kicking athlete’s foot to the curb is a big part of that. With the proper care, clean practices, and treatment, you can say goodbye to the itch and hello to happy, healthy feet. These things can also help you avoid other foot problems along the way.
Do you need personalized athlete’s foot treatment? The Foot & Ankle Institute of New England can help. Rest assured, our board-certified doctors and foot and ankle surgeons will do their best to ensure you get the right care. If you have any questions, call our office near you. You can also book a consultation using our appointment request form.
Let us help you get the care you need for your feet. We look forward to serving you!
