Diagnosis and Prevention of Athlete’s Foot
Athlete’s foot, medically known as tinea pedis, is an infectious fungal ailment that targets the skin present on the feet. The name arises from its frequent occurrence among athletes. The onset of the infection typically manifests during the spring or summer, stemming from increased humidity levels and elevated temperatures within footwear that promote optimal conditions for the growth and propagation of fungal organisms.
While athlete’s foot does not pose a severe threat, its symptoms can prove to be a considerable nuisance if inadequately addressed, and it has the potential to spread to other areas of the body. In certain circumstances, prioritizing medical care may be of utmost importance, for example, for people with diabetes.
Athletes Foot Diagnosis
A physician may use the physical, outward symptoms, such as rash, to identify the presence of athlete’s foot. In case of uncertainty about your symptoms being a fungal infection, they might recommend a skin test be sent out to a lab for confirmation.
Athlete’s Foot Prevention
Athlete’s foot prevention is achieved through the careful implementation of preventative measures, which include the following precautionary steps:
- Wear appropriate footwear in areas including pools, gyms, shower or locker rooms, and other public spaces. When utilizing shower facilities in a public space, it is advisable to wear appropriate foot protection to minimize the risk of contracting foot infections.
- The fungal organism responsible for Athlete’s Foot prefers warm, humid environments commonly found within enclosed footwear subject to perspiration. In warm climatic conditions, let your feet breathe and wear open footwear.
- Wear socks composed of natural fabrics that can dry or extract humidity from the epidermal surface.
- Avoid sharing things with an individual who has athlete’s foot.
For individuals who require aid in managing a persistent occurrence of athlete’s foot, contacting a qualified podiatrist is recommended. A medical practitioner can accurately diagnose an infection within an individual and provide prompt recommendations for efficacious therapeutic interventions and treatments to alleviate any associated discomfort.
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 concerns or want to make an appointment, please call (520) 575-0800.
