Athlete's Foot

Great Lakes Foot and Ankle Institute

Podiatrists & Foot Surgeons located in Clinton Township, Chesterfield, Fort Gratiot, East China Township, Shelby Township, Rochester & Macomb, MI

Athlete’s foot, medically known as tinea pedis, is one of the most common skin infections that affect your feet. If you have redness, soreness, and tenderness between your toes, it’s time to visit the podiatry team at Great Lakes Foot and Ankle Institute to see if you have athlete’s foot. You can either call your nearest clinic directly or click on the online scheduling feature for an appointment today.

Athlete's Foot Q & A

How did I get athlete’s foot?

Athlete’s foot is a highly contagious fungal infection that generally develops between your toes, although it can certainly spread to other areas of your feet. The fungus that causes athlete’s foot is the same organism that leads to jock itch, so as you can expect, the infection thrives in warm, moist, dark environments. You can become infected with athlete’s foot by:

  • Regularly wearing damp socks and shoes
  • Sharing socks or shoes with someone who has athlete’s foot
  • Walking barefoot in a damp communal area, such as a gym locker room

Picking or scratching at an untreated athlete’s foot infection can cause it to spread to other areas, including your hands and nails. Make sure you know the signs and symptoms of athlete’s foot, so you can get it treated before the condition worsens — or spreads to someone else.

What are the symptoms of athlete’s foot?

An athlete’s foot infection might start out as a little burning or itching between your toes. As the infection builds up, you may experience:

  • Scaly rash
  • Blisters or ulcers
  • Redness or inflammation

Since athlete’s foot can sometimes be mistaken for eczema or even very dry skin, it’s important to seek medical attention to get a proper diagnosis early on, rather than trying to treat the condition on your own.

Is there a treatment for athlete’s foot?

Yes, and your podiatrist thoroughly diagnoses you before starting your athlete’s foot treatment. Your athlete’s foot appointment at Great Lakes Foot and Ankle Institute begins with a thorough examination.

Usually, your podiatrist can diagnose athlete’s foot on the spot, simply by examining your rash. Occasionally, though, skin scrapings — which are evaluated under a microscope — can help confirm an athlete’s foot diagnosis, while ruling out other conditions.

Once they confirm your case of athlete’s foot and talk with you to determine why you may have athlete’s foot, your podiatrist can design your treatment plan. You may benefit from:

  • Prescription-strength topical antifungal ointments
  • Oral antifungal medications
  • Anti-itch powders or sprays

The team at Great Lakes Foot and Ankle Institute even counsels you on how to prevent future athlete’s foot outbreaks, since once you’ve had it, your chances of becoming infected again are higher.

The team at Great Lakes Foot and Ankle Institute can help you get through an athlete’s foot outbreak right away. Schedule your visit online or over the phone with your nearest clinic.

 

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