Can Non-Athletes Get Athlete’s Foot?
It may appear that athlete’s foot would exclusively impact athletes; however, that is not the case. You don’t need to be sporty to contract this infection. As many athletes wear closed-toe shoes and frequently use public showers, it is true that athletes are more likely to develop this infection. But even non-athletes can contract this fungus if they don’t take preventative measures.
How do you get athlete’s foot?
- The bacteria thrive best in warm and humid environments.
- Wet socks and shoes.
- Contagious surfaces like towels and floors of public places.
- Sharing footwear with others.
How to prevent athlete’s foot?
- Change socks frequently.
- Keep your feet dry
- Let your shoes dry.
- Buy breathable socks.
- Take precautions in public showers and swimming pools, as they serve as a primary breeding ground for fungi.
- Dry the moisture between your toes.
What are the symptoms of athlete’s foot?
- Between your toes, look for white patches that are itchy, which is one of the main signs of athlete’s foot.
- Painful and dry spots.
- Cracked skin.
- Bleeding.
- Separation of nails from the nail bed.
How can athlete’s foot be treated?
- Apply antifungal products.
- Keep your feet dry.
- Apply antifungal powder to your shoes and on your feet.
- Use sprays and lotions with antifungal properties.
- Only after the infection has cleared up, you keep up your medication for one to two weeks to avoid a recurrence.
When to see your podiatrist?
- Drugstore remedies are ineffective.
- You’re in extreme discomfort.
- If the infection shows worse symptoms.
- The bacteria has spread to your hands and other parts of the body.
- You have a weaker immune system.
- You have diabetes.
If your athlete’s foot has not improved after two weeks of using over-the-counter antifungal products, see a podiatrist without delay. Since athlete’s foot is contagious and can infect other parts of the body, it should not be ignored.
The foot experts at Desert Podiatric Medical Specialists in the Tucson, Oro Valley, and Green Valley areas of Pima County, Arizona, have unparalleled experience treating all aspects of foot and ankle care. If you have any questions or want to make an appointment, please call (520) 575-0800.
