Athlete’s Feet are a common fungal condition that occurs on feet which are exposed to moisture and darkness. This provides a perfect environment for fungus to grow and survive. This condition is very easy to treat and it is a very common foot condition.
Most patients will present to the office with complaints of redness, itching and scaling feet. They will also complain that the feet have a very peculiar odor- it stinks. Most patients are usually wearing closed toe shoes such as work boots, sneakers or dress shoes. Also, patients who wear socks or hosiery that is made of nylon type material. Sock and hosiery which are made from nylon do not absorb or wick sweat from the foot. This will provide a moist environment that allows fungus to grow and proliferate.
This fungal infection can present with redness, dryness and scaling in a moccasin-type distribution on the foot. Some patients will have scaling and moisture in between the toes which can have a “cheesy” type odor. Sometime, scratching or the use of a topical antibiotic can cause a super infection which is a fungal and bacteria infection which occurs at the same time.
Treatments can consist of topical anti-fungals, oral anti-fungals and soaks that promote drying of the feet. Treatments can take up eight weeks. These treatments are successful and should not be overlooked. In rare instances, some fungal infections can become systemic and the occurrences are usually higher in the immunocompromised population. Your local podiatrist can be a valuable resource in treating this condition. If this article provides a description of you or someone you may know, please visit our office.
By: Dr. Jasen Langley
Tags: Athlete's Feet, Athlete's foot, feet pain, foot pain, redness, smelly feet, swelling
